Miami shifts from a pure offense to a defense-forward approach, banking on a deeper, younger defense to carry the load while the passing game endures missing Armstead and Smith. Weaver’s unit ranked top-5 in yards allowed last season and could elevate further if Phillips and Chubb stay healthy, giving fantasy managers new paths to points through sacks, turnovers, and game-swing plays. Hill and Waddle remain high-end targets, Achane becomes a focal point in the run/PPR mix, and Ewers/Wilson provide insurance behind a thinner OL.

Fantasy pivots center on Hill, Waddle, and Achane, with the defense shouldering more responsibility for wins. If the rookie corners pop and the front-seven pressure mounts, the Dolphins could push for home playoff games. Armstead’s absence heightens risk on protection, so Week-1-lineup decisions will hinge on the health of Phillips/Chubb and the secondary’s improvable depth.