The Miami Dolphins have completely transformed their edge rusher room under first-year coach Jeff Hafley.
However, Chop Robinson, entering his third season with the team, could be one of the keys to success in 2026.
Robinson had a promising rookie season, recording six sacks in 17 games. However, his production dipped in 2025 as he finished with just four sacks and 21 tackles.
“Just watching the tape from my rookie year and last year, I know what I’m capable of,” Robinson said earlier this week. “I’m going to do everything that I can to put myself in the best position.
“Everything is motivating me. I’ve moved on from those years, and I’m just focusing on this year.”
2026 is a critical season for Robinson
Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
The 2026 season could be make-or-break for Robinson. Miami is under a new regime led by Hafley and general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan. Hafley wants to build a physical, multiple-front defense that relies on edge rushers who can set the edge against the run while also getting after the quarterback.
During his two seasons as the Green Bay Packers' defensive coordinator, Hafley typically preferred bigger edge rushers. Because of that, Robinson has increased his weight from 254 pounds last season to 265.
“I think in the run game, it’s going to help me set the edge,” Robinson said. “When I put the weight on, I was eating right. I have a chef and everything, so I’m putting the right fuel in my body, and I honestly feel the best I’ve ever felt.”
Robinson, 23, flashed an elite first step at Penn State and showed the ability to convert his speed into power. However, he hasn't consistently displayed those traits during his first two NFL seasons.
Early in training camp, though, Robinson has stood out. According to Dolphins reporter David Furones of the South Florida Sun Sentinel, Robinson "stood out" while setting the edge against the run. He also recovered a fumble and later beat left tackle Patrick Paul for what would have been a sack.
If Robinson finally fulfills his potential in 2026, he can show Hafley and Sullivan that he deserves to be one of the foundational pieces of the Dolphins' rebuild.
