MIAMI GARDENS — The Miami Dolphins started the season 1-6 but now they're 5-7 after a home defeat of the New Orleans Saints at Hard Rock Stadium.
It was Dolphins 21, Saints, 17, and it shouldn't have been that close, but it was.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementDe'Von Achane, Chop Robinson and Minkah Fitzpatrick were standouts for coach Mike McDaniel. Tua Tagovailoa did not perform well as his subpar season continues.
No time like the present for an Overreaction Monday.
Miami Dolphins are making NFL playoffs
Overreaction? Yes. The Dolphins have won three straight games and four of five. They are favored by 2.5 points at the Jets to improve to 6-7. 6-7, 6-7. That would be a cool run. Good vibes as the kids say. The Dolphins, at 1-6, could have targeted a realistic goal of 7-10 or 8-9 and that would remain very realistic, perhaps even 9-8. But a 10-7 finish and about 12 other things would have to all happen to get Miami into the postseason.
Nov 30, 2025; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel stands on the field prior to a game against the New Orleans Saints at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn ImagesTua Tagovailoa is a concern
Overreaction? No. Tua is having a poor season and how he plays in cold-weather games at New York, Pittsburgh and New England could truly play a big role in how the organization views his future in 2026 and beyond. Too many interceptions. Not enough big plays. He doesn't look healthy. Is Tua not healthy? Or is this just who he is at age 27?
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementDolphins should pay De'Von Achane
Overreaction? No. We're not sure if Champ Kelly will gain full-time general manager status. And nobody likes to pay NFL running backs. But Achane is Miami's MVP. He is a Pro Bowler. He is their best player. He is Christian McCaffrey Light and almost Christian McCaffrey. Almost. Miami has seen too many good, young players leave. This is one they should certainly keep.
Chop Robinson can be impact pass rusher
Overreaction? No. Chop had a slow start to this season but was a monster against the Saints with five tackles, 1.5 sacks, three quarterback hits and the game-ending tackle on 4th down. Earlier this season, Chop had injuries. And he was stuck behind Jaelan Phillips, who has since been traded. Chop has also had to adjust to the adjustments opposing teams have made since his late-season success in 2024. He will make a positive impact for Miami moving forward.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementMike McDaniel on path to return
Overreaction? No. The combination of Mike McDaniel-Anthony Weaver would be hard to improve on, in my opinion, from a football knowledge-scheme standpoint. Now, there are many other factors owner Stephen Ross will surely consider, such as conclusions about culture and direction of program. If Miami goes from 1-6 to 8-9 that would be a finish of 7-3 and certainly fuel justification for a return. Running back McDaniel-Weaver for 2026 - with legitimate QB competition for Tua? - surely may not be a terrible option.
Minkah Fitzpatrick Making game-changing plays for Miami Dolphins
Joe Schad Miami Dolphins extend win streak to three after beating Saints
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementJoe Schad is a journalist covering the Miami Dolphins and the NFL at The Palm Beach Post. You can reach him at [email protected] and follow him on Instagram and on X @schadjoe. Sign up for Joe's free weekly Dolphins Pulse Newsletter. Help support our work by subscribing today.
This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Miami Dolphins Overreaction Monday, Chop Robinson will make NFL impact
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