The NFL’s annual free agency whirlwind hasn’t even officially begun, but the Miami Dolphins have already made one of the offseason’s most attention-grabbing moves: veteran pass rusher Bradley Chubb is officially on the market. Chubb, who just wrapped up his age-29 season, finds himself released by Miami weeks before the March 11 free agency start, immediately becoming one of the league’s most coveted defensive free agents. The decision, announced on February 16, 2026, signals a seismic shift for both Chubb and the Dolphins—and it’s creating a frenzy of speculation about where the two-time Pro Bowler will land next.
For Chubb, the journey to this point has been anything but straightforward. Drafted fifth overall by the Denver Broncos in 2018, the North Carolina State product burst onto the scene with an impressive 12.0 sacks as a rookie. Many in Denver hoped he’d be the next elite pass rusher to anchor their defense. But as the years rolled on, Chubb’s tenure with the Broncos was marred by injuries and a lack of postseason success. Despite flashes of brilliance, including multiple double-digit sack campaigns, Denver never made the playoffs during Chubb’s five seasons there. Eventually, the Broncos opted to trade him to the Dolphins midway through the 2022 season—a blockbuster move that saw Miami double down on their belief in Chubb by signing him to a five-year, $110 million contract extension.
Chubb’s time in Miami was a mixed bag. In his two full seasons with the Dolphins—2023 and 2025—he delivered a combined 20 sacks, 8 forced fumbles, and 117 tackles. His 2023 campaign stood out as arguably his best, tallying 11 sacks and a career-high 6 forced fumbles under defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. Yet, the injury bug struck again in 2024, as Chubb missed the entire season with a torn ACL. Returning in 2025, he still managed a solid 8.5 sacks and eight tackles for loss, but questions about his durability lingered.
The Dolphins’ decision to part ways with Chubb wasn’t just about performance; it was also about dollars and direction. Chubb was set to command a staggering $31.2 million cap hit in 2026. Releasing him saves Miami $7.3 million in cap space, though it comes at the cost of $23.8 million in dead money. The move is emblematic of a franchise in transition, with new general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan and new head coach Jeff Hafley at the helm. "First big move and cut for Jon-Eric Sullivan as Dolphins GM," noted Dolphins reporter David Furones on X. The Dolphins, after back-to-back Wild Card exits in 2023 and 2025 and missing the playoffs altogether in 2024 and 2026, are clearly embarking on a significant roster overhaul.
Chubb’s release is just the tip of the iceberg for Miami, as the franchise faces a slew of tough decisions in the coming weeks. According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, "The Dolphins and two-time Pro Bowl pass-rusher Bradley Chubb are parting ways, making the 29-year-old a free agent." Schultz added, "In his two full seasons with the Dolphins (2023 & 2025), Chubb has 20 sacks, 8 FF, and 117 tackles. He should have a nice market … Chubb had 8.5 sacks this past season and was a top trade candidate before the deadline, with three teams actively trying to trade for him before Miami opted to keep him. Now he’s a free agent and should have heavy interest."
The interest in Chubb is already heating up. Several teams are being floated as ideal landing spots for the veteran edge rusher. The Carolina Panthers top the list, thanks to Chubb’s brief but productive stint with Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero in Denver during 2022. Chubb recorded 5.5 sacks and 8 quarterback hits in just eight games before being traded, and his familiarity with Evero’s scheme could make for a seamless transition. Not to mention, a move to Carolina would be a homecoming of sorts—Chubb played his college ball at North Carolina State, and the Panthers have a glaring need on the edge.
The Philadelphia Eagles are another intriguing option. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, who coached Chubb both as Broncos head coach (2019-2021) and as Dolphins DC in 2023, knows exactly what Chubb brings to the table. The Eagles’ edge rusher depth is currently thin, with only Jalyx Hunt, Nolan Smith, and Jose Ramirez under contract for 2025. With Jaelan Phillips potentially leaving in free agency, Chubb could fit nicely into Philly’s pass rush rotation if the price is right. As one local columnist mused, "Chubb isn’t the type of player that the Eagles must immediately go out and sign. The Dolphins are cutting him for a reason and he’s had durability issues in the past. But if the price is right and he’s willing to be part of Philly’s pass rush rotation, maybe it’s a good fit for both sides."
The New Orleans Saints round out the trio of top suitors. Saints defensive coordinator Brandon Staley was Chubb’s position coach in Denver early in his career, and the Saints are always on the lookout for cost-effective defensive upgrades. For Chubb, a Georgia native, New Orleans offers a chance to stay close to home and reunite with a familiar face on the coaching staff. Plus, the Saints’ recent discovery of a potential franchise quarterback has them feeling optimistic about their playoff prospects.
Chubb’s market appeal is further buoyed by the fact that, because he was released before the official start of free agency, he’s free to sign with any team immediately. That gives interested franchises a head start in addressing their pass rushing needs without impacting future compensatory draft pick formulas. As free agency looms, Chubb’s name is likely to dominate headlines and front office discussions across the league.
What does the future hold for Chubb? After eight seasons defined by flashes of dominance, frustrating injuries, and teams in transition, the veteran is surely eyeing a chance to finally join a legitimate contender. With the Dolphins headed for a rebuild and the Broncos now anchored by rising star Nik Bonitto, Chubb’s next destination could be the one that finally gives him both stability and a shot at postseason glory. As of now, the NFL world waits eagerly to see where the next chapter of Bradley Chubb’s career will unfold.
With the Dolphins’ release of Bradley Chubb, the 2026 offseason has already delivered its first major storyline. As one of the league’s top free agents, Chubb’s decision will send ripples throughout the NFL landscape, and the race to sign him is officially on.