Dolphins Secure First Win, Defeating Jets 28-25
Malik Willis leads Miami with two passing touchdowns and a rushing score, avoiding an 0-6 start.
The Miami Dolphins secured their first victory of the 2026 NFL season on Sunday, defeating the New York Jets 28-25 at MetLife Stadium. Quarterback Malik Willis was instrumental in the win, throwing for two touchdowns and adding a rushing score. This victory prevents the Dolphins from starting the season 0-6 and avoids what some considered a potential winless season for the rebuilding team under first-year head coach Jeff Hafley.
The Dolphins established an early lead, scoring on their first two drives. Willis connected with rookie Caleb Douglas for a seven-yard touchdown, and Ollie Gordon added another score to cap a 14-play drive, giving Miami a 14-7 lead. The Jets responded when Geno Smith found Omar Cooper Jr. for a 52-yard gain, setting up a touchdown pass to tight end Mason Taylor, tying the game at seven.
Miami regained control before halftime, with Willis scrambling for a two-yard touchdown in the final seconds of the second quarter to make the score 21-7 at the break. The Dolphins extended their lead in the second half, but the Jets mounted a late comeback. Smith connected with Taylor again for a 12-yard touchdown, and Taylor converted the two-point conversion to bring the Jets within three points at 28-25 with 3:24 remaining.
On the ensuing drive, Willis converted a crucial fourth-and-1 with a quarterback sneak to seal the victory for the Dolphins. The win moves Miami to 1-5 on the season, while the Jets fall to 2-5. Smith finished the game completing 23 of 30 passes for 287 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception.