McDaniel Dismisses ‘Baseless’ Trade Rumors.

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel refuted “unfounded” speculation on Friday, stating the organization is not currently considering any player transactions.

Online platforms buzzed this week with hypothetical trades involving Jaylen Waddle, De’Von Achane, Jaelan Phillips, and Bradley Chubb, prompted by the Dolphins’ 1-5 start to the season, which led some commentators to suggest they would be sellers by the trade deadline, set for 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday, Nov. 4.

While the Dolphins typically avoid commenting on speculation, McDaniel was resolute in his response on Friday.

“All reports concerning potential trades involving Miami Dolphins players are unfounded at this time,” he said. “I find this period of the year personally unsettling, as it casts doubt on individual players’ situations due to these circulating rumors.”

Waddle, initially drafted sixth overall by the Dolphins in 2021, secured a three-year, $84.75 million extension in 2024 and is currently in the concluding year of his initial contract.

He has effectively stepped into the primary receiver role for Miami since Tyreek Hill’s season-ending injury in Week 4, amassing six receptions for 205 yards and a touchdown across two games without Hill.

When questioned about the swirling trade discussions on Thursday, Waddle indicated that they were easily ignored since he generally doesn’t see them.

“I am truly concentrating on the upcoming game; currently focused on the Browns and our aim to achieve a victory,” he stated. “I really don’t observe much outside the game. If my agent or anyone of importance doesn’t reach out, I don’t pay attention to rumors.”

Miami has refrained from engaging in any substantial deadline transactions since 2022, when they acquired Chubb from the Denver Broncos in exchange for a first-round selection.