Benjamin Solak identifies Chop Robinson as Dolphins 2026 defensive factor

ESPN analyst Benjamin Solak has designated linebacker Chop Robinson as the Miami Dolphins' primary X factor for the 2026 NFL season. The designation follows Robinson's performance over his first two seasons, where he recorded 47 tackles and 10 sacks. After the departures of pass rushers Jaelan Phillips and Bradley Chubb, Robinson enters the season as the team's top option in the pass rush. His development is critical as the Dolphins look to secure a core defensive contributor to avoid further personnel turnover. Robinson recorded a quick pressure rate of 4.4% in 2025, down from 7.4% during his rookie campaign. The team will assess his long-term viability as a building block, with his eligibility for a fifth-year option contingent on his performance this year.

• 2:35 PMYahoo Sports — NFL analyst picks one of Miami's young LBs as their 2026 X factor