Dolphins Dilemma: Can Bradley Chubb’s Recovery Justify His $20M Salary, or Is a Trade Inevitable?
The Miami Dolphins’ defense is at a crossroads. After a disappointing 2024 season that saw them miss the playoffs, despite a strong defensive showing, questions linger about the future of key players. One of the biggest question marks surrounds veteran outside linebacker Bradley Chubb and whether his recovery from a devastating knee injury can justify his hefty $20 million+ salary. With training camp in full swing and the regular season fast approaching, the pressure is on for Chubb to prove his worth.
Chubb’s Rocky Road to Recovery
Bradley Chubb’s journey back to the field has been anything but smooth. In a Week 17 game against the Baltimore Ravens in 2023, Chubb suffered a complete ACL tear with meniscal damage, marking the second major knee reconstruction of his career. This injury sidelined him for the entire 2024 season, leaving a gaping hole in the Dolphins’ pass rush.
According to Yardbarker, Chubb’s absence created a significant deficit in Miami’s edge pressure rate, dropping by 31.4%. Without his presence, opposing quarterbacks gained an additional 0.8 seconds in pocket time, severely impacting the Dolphins’ pass rush effectiveness.
While Chubb has returned to practice and expressed optimism about his recovery, concerns remain about his ability to regain his pre-injury form. In May 2025, Chubb stated he was “95 [or] 99%, in terms of just feeling good, feeling better, feeling like myself”. However, the Dolphins are proceeding with caution, limiting his participation in practice to avoid any setbacks.
The Financial Factor: A $20 Million Gamble?
Chubb’s lucrative contract further complicates the situation. Spotrac.com indicates that Chubb signed a 3-year, $54.49 million contract with the Dolphins, averaging an annual salary of $18.16 million. In 2025, his cap hit is $12.33 million, with a dead cap value of over $36 million.
Recognizing the financial implications of Chubb’s injury and potential decline in performance, the Dolphins approached him about a pay cut. In March 2025, Chubb agreed to reduce his 2025 base salary from $19.5 million to $3.2 million, saving the team approximately $16 million in cap space. However, his base salary is scheduled to return to $19.5 million in 2026, making his contract a recurring concern for the Dolphins’ front office.
Trade Winds Blowing?
Given Chubb’s injury history, high salary, and the Dolphins’ need for cap flexibility, the possibility of a trade looms large. While the Dolphins have publicly expressed their commitment to Chubb, the NFL is a business, and tough decisions must be made.
ESPN NFL Insider Jeremy Fowler reported that some teams are monitoring Chubb’s situation, wondering if he could become a potential trade target. However, a Chubb trade would have significant financial ramifications. A post-June 1 trade could split the dead cap hit over two years, but the Dolphins would still need to absorb a substantial amount of dead money.
The Impact on Miami’s Defense
Whether Chubb returns to his Pro Bowl form or becomes a trade casualty, his situation has a significant impact on the Dolphins’ defense. In 2024, the Dolphins’ defense finished in the top 10 in both total yards allowed and scoring, a rare feat for the franchise. However, they also struggled to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks, finishing 27th in sacks.
If Chubb can regain his explosiveness and disruptiveness, he would provide a massive boost to the Dolphins’ pass rush. His presence would also free up opportunities for other pass rushers, such as Jaelan Phillips and Chop Robinson. However, if Chubb struggles or is traded, the Dolphins will need to rely on their depth and scheme to compensate for his absence.
Internal Options and Potential Replacements
The Dolphins have invested in young pass rushers like Chop Robinson, who had a promising rookie season in 2024 with 6 sacks and a 17.2% pressure rate. They also hope for a full recovery from Jaelan Phillips, who is coming off a torn Achilles.
In addition to internal options, the Dolphins could explore potential veteran acquisitions to bolster their pass rush. However, with limited cap space and a focus on building through the draft, they may need to get creative in their approach.
The Clock Is Ticking
As the Dolphins prepare for the 2025 season, the clock is ticking on Bradley Chubb. He has the opportunity to prove that his recovery is complete and that he can still be a dominant force on the edge. If he can stay healthy and productive, he will justify his salary and solidify his place as a key member of the Dolphins’ defense.
However, if Chubb struggles or fails to meet expectations, the Dolphins may be forced to consider a trade. The decision will not be easy, but it is one that could have a significant impact on the team’s future. The Dolphins’ dilemma is clear: Can Bradley Chubb’s recovery justify his $20M salary, or is a trade inevitable? Only time will tell.