As a bold trade proposal gains pace, Miami is awash with rumors. Could the Dolphins actually sign a game-changing linebacker to a massive $120 million contract?
The subject of speculation is none other than 2021 Defensive Player of the Year and great edge rusher T.J. Watt of the Pittsburgh Steelers. According to analysts, Miami might make a bold move if Pittsburgh decides not to extend Watt: Watt and a 2025 first-round pick, possibly in exchange for Zach Sieler and Jaelen Phillips, as well as Miami’s 2025 and 2026 first-round picks and a 2025 second-round pick.
Why Miami might make the move
Instant defensive dominance: Watt brings elite pass-rush production—last season alone he posted 11.5 sacks, led the league with six forced fumbles, and tied NFL records for sack totals .
A generational upgrade: Pairing Watt with backs like Jerome Baker or Bradley Chubb could transform Miami’s defense into a feared force across both pass rush and coverage.
Super Bowl ambition: With Tua Tagovailoa directing the offense, upgrading the front seven helps balance the team and supports a deeper playoff run.
The cap reckoning
Naturally, the cost of this would be high. Watt has a new contract for over $120 million, of which more than half is guaranteed. It would take ingenuity to combine that with Miami’s present cap restrictions, such as renegotiating current contracts, possibly unloading players like Bradley Chubb or Jalen Ramsey, and looking into future cap space.
The timeline
Neither Watt nor the Steelers have confirmed any trade discussions—or an extension impasse. However, reports from April suggest Miami is actively “monitoring his situation”
The verdict
Overnight, the power dynamics in the AFC East would be altered by a move this significant. It’s a daring move to take on the Jets and Bills, but the danger is enormous. Should Miami successfully negotiate the salary cap and get Watt, they would be acknowledging that it would be “Super Bowl or bust.” It’s a tantalizing “what if” for the time being, but every Dolphins fan is dreaming about it.
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