Dolphins Struggle to Generate Pass Rush
The winless Miami Dolphins currently rank last in the NFL with only four sacks on the 2026 season.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Football
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The Miami Dolphins remain winless with an 0-5 record as the team struggles to put pressure on opposing quarterbacks. The defense has recorded just four sacks through five games, leaving them at the bottom of the league rankings.
Why it matters
Improving pass pressure is critical for the team to bolster its struggling third-down defense. Increased production in the backfield is necessary to limit opponent conversions and reduce the frequency of touchdown passes allowed.
The Dolphins currently rank 29th in quarterback-pressure percentage at 18.4% and 23rd in quarterback-hurry percentage at 6.3%. Opponents are successfully converting 51.7% of their third-down attempts against the team.
The players
Zach Sieler
He is a defensive lineman who currently leads the Miami Dolphins in sacks for the 2026 season.
Jeff Hafley
He serves as the defensive coordinator for the Miami Dolphins and is overseeing the team's strategic adjustments.
Chop Robinson
He is an edge defender for the Miami Dolphins who has recorded one of the team's four total sacks.
Josh Uche
He is a linebacker for the Miami Dolphins who has recorded one of the team's four total sacks.
The details
Zach Sieler leads the team with two sacks, while Chop Robinson and Josh Uche have each contributed one. Defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley is now planning to adjust strategies, including potential blitzes from linebackers and safeties, to disrupt opposing passers.
Timeline
October 25, 2026: The Dolphins face the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium.
Season Trajectory
The team's failure to generate sacks forces the coaching staff to adopt aggressive, high-risk defensive schemes that diverge from their early-season tactical approach. These changes are essential to prevent the Dolphins from falling further out of contention as they seek their first win.
The team's reliance on a 21.5% blitz rate suggests high-intensity, high-variance defensive play calling will continue through the weekend. Fantasy managers should note the lack of consistent sack production when evaluating the Dolphins' defensive unit for upcoming matchups.
The takeaway
The coaching staff must prioritize schematic changes that generate pressure without relying solely on blitz packages. Fans should monitor whether these adjustments lead to improved third-down stops in the upcoming contest against the Jets.
Further reading
For more on the team's outlook, visit the Football section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Sun Sentinel.
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