Dolphins' Aaron Brewer Shook by Jaylen Waddle Trade, Shifts Focus to Rebuild

Miami Dolphins center Aaron Brewer admitted he was stunned when the team traded star wide receiver Jaylen Waddle to the Denver Broncos in exchange for a package that includes a 2026 first-round pick. The move marks a major step in Miami’s ongoing rebuild and sent shockwaves through the locker room.

Brewer, a second-team All-Pro, shared his initial reaction with Dolphins offensive tackle Terron Armstead on “The Set.” His first thought was disbelief. “My initial reaction is I'm just shocked. I'm shook,” he said. “I'm like, what are we doing?”

Despite the surprise, Brewer quickly shifted his mindset. He emphasized the importance of supporting his former teammate while also preparing for the challenges ahead. “But then at the same time, I'm happy for my brother,” he said. “It's always a family perspective, like, yeah, I want to have the best team we can have, but I love when people go to a different position and I always wish the best for them. So, I hope he's fine.”

Brewer recognized that the trade and other key departures, like defensive end Bradley Chubb, present opportunities for younger players to step up. “Every time with something like that, I'm looking at the people we've still got,” he said. “You've got to put something on your shoulder. That's an extra chip. You see an opportunity.”

The Dolphins have already lost several key contributors, including Waddle, Chubb, and quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who missed the entire 2023 season. The team’s 2023 record of 9-8 did not justify the high payroll, and general manager Chris Grier has since moved to reshape the roster. Miami is now projected to have over $50 million in cap space for 2025.

Brewer, entering the final year of his contract, remains committed to the rebuild. When asked if he expects an extension, he said, “I see something in the near future. I wouldn't say I'm quite a visionary, but I see something in the near future.” The 28-year-old center has been a consistent presence on the offensive line, starting all 17 games in 2023.

With Waddle gone, the spotlight now shifts to young receivers like Malik Washington and De'Von Achane, who did not attend the start of the voluntary offseason program. The Dolphins will also look to develop their rookie class and continue to evaluate whether to move on from other veteran players.

Miami’s 2025 season will be a critical test for the new front office and coaching staff. With the draft just months away and key decisions on the horizon, the Dolphins must show progress if they hope to remain competitive in the AFC East.