The New England Patriots enter Week 9 sitting atop the AFC East with a 6-2 record, and the second-worst team in the division is the 2-7 Miami Dolphins. While the Patriots are on the other side of a quick rebuild, Miami is on the verge of hitting the reset button.
The Dolphins have already fired general manager Chris Grier, and there are now reports that they could move on from head coach Mike McDaniel, quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, and even trade receiver Jaylen Waddle at the November 4 trade deadline.
On Saturday, NFL insider Adam Schefter reported that Miami is willing to listen to trade offers for all of their players. While Schefter said a source called a Waddle trade “highly unlikely,” the Dolphins are willing to hear out offers. The insider went on to say Miami would ask for a first-round pick, and more, to actually move Waddle.
While the current Dolphins receiver would be a great addition to a Patriots team that’s already rolling, this asking price will likely keep New England out of a potential deal— especially since both teams are in the AFC East.
Dolphins would be expected to ask for -- in the words of a source -- "a 1-plus" in any potential trade for Jaylen Waddle, meaning they believe they would have to receive a first-round draft pick plus other compensation. A trade for Waddle is considered “highly unlikely.” https://t.co/deXFeb2VAS
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 2, 2025
Dolphins would charge Patriots far too much for Jaylen Waddle
Again, Waddle would be a great pick up for New England. The wide receiver surpassed 1000 receiving yards in his first three seasons, and already has 586 yards and four touchdowns in nine games this season. In a Patriots receiving room led by Stefon Diggs with 470 yards, New England’s most productive receivers after him are Kayshon Boutte with 431 yards and Mack Hollins with 208 yards.
Jaylen Waddle would be a phenomenal addition for this season, and the years moving forward. He’s only turning 27 at the end of November, and he’s under contract through the 2028 season.
Unfortunately, a package consisting of a first-round pick and more is a lot for the Patriots, especially since New England will likely be taxed for being in the same division as Miami. If the Dolphins are going to send their top player to the best team in the division, they will want a massive package to make the move make sense.
Considering how much it’ll likely cost, the Patriots need to just sit this one out.