Overview
- The Dolphins beat the New York Jets 28-25 on Sunday to register their first victory of the 2026 season and to give head coach Jeff Hafley his first win with the team.
- Quarterback Malik Willis delivered a turnover-free breakout, completing 14 of 21 passes for 208 yards with two passing touchdowns and adding a rushing touchdown, and he was named a FedEx Air & Ground Player of the Week nominee.
- National outlets bumped Miami slightly in Week 8 power rankings after the win, but the team remains near the bottom of the league with a 1-5 record.
- Roster debate intensified after the game as veteran right tackle Austin Jackson drew criticism for poor play and trade speculation, while Zach Sieler’s agent publicly said he would be 'shocked' if Sieler were moved.
- The win has raised the stakes of short-term evaluation for Willis and the coaching staff, bolstered locker-room morale with small celebrations like an elevator-door wrap, and puts a spotlight on how the team responds in Sunday’s home game against the Patriots.