Fame Nods for Former Players of the Miami Dolphins

The Miami Dolphins’ legacy in the NFL is built on the shoulders of legendary players—and this year, that legacy is being celebrated once again, as multiple former Dolphins have received prestigious "fame nods" that honor their contributions to the sport. Fame Nods for Former Players of the Miami Dolphins isn’t just about individual accolades; it’s a tribute to the talent, dedication, and teamwork that defined eras of Dolphins football, from the undefeated 1972 season to the playoff-contending teams of the 2000s and beyond. These recognitions—including Pro Football Hall of Fame nominations, All-Time NFL Team selections, and franchise hall of fame inductions—serve as a reminder of the Dolphins’ place in NFL history and the lasting impact their former players have had on the game.

Fame Nods for Former Players of the Miami Dolphins begins with the most prestigious honor in football: the Pro Football Hall of Fame. This year, former Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino, already a Hall of Famer since 2005, is receiving additional recognition as part of the NFL’s 100th Anniversary All-Time Team, a distinction that places him among the greatest quarterbacks to ever play the game. Marino, who spent his entire 17-year career with the Dolphins, holds NFL records that stood for decades—including most career passing yards (61,361) and most career touchdown passes (420) at the time of his retirement. Beyond the stats, Marino was known for his leadership, his ability to thrive under pressure, and his loyalty to the Dolphins franchise. “Dan Marino didn’t just play for the Dolphins—he embodied what it means to be a Dolphin,” said Hall of Fame coach Don Shula, who coached Marino for 13 seasons. “This All-Time Team nod is a fitting tribute to a player who changed the way the quarterback position is played.”

Fame Nods for Former Players of the Miami Dolphins delves into another significant recognition: the induction of former Dolphins running back Larry Csonka into the Dolphins’ own Honor Roll, the team’s highest franchise honor. Csonka, a key member of the 1972 undefeated Dolphins team (the only perfect season in NFL history), was a bruising running back who led the team to two Super Bowl victories. His 1973 Super Bowl VIII performance—145 rushing yards and two touchdowns—earned him Super Bowl MVP honors and solidified his place as one of the Dolphins’ all-time greats. The Honor Roll induction, which includes having his name and number displayed at Hard Rock Stadium, celebrates Csonka’s on-field success and his role in building the Dolphins’ winning culture. “Larry Csonka was the heart of our 1972 team—tough, reliable, and always willing to do the dirty work,” said former Dolphins teammate Paul Warfield. “This honor is long overdue, and it’s a reminder of the foundation he helped lay for the Dolphins’ legacy.”

Fame Nods for Former Players of the Miami Dolphins highlights how the Miami Dolphins’ defensive legends are also being celebrated this year, with former linebacker Zach Thomas receiving a nomination for the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Class of 2026. Thomas, who played 12 seasons with the Dolphins (1996–2007), was a undersized but relentless linebacker who defied expectations, earning seven Pro Bowl selections and five First-Team All-Pro honors. He ranks first in Dolphins history in tackles (1,734) and is widely regarded as one of the most underrated defensive players of his era. The Hall of Fame nomination recognizes Thomas’ consistency, his football IQ, and his ability to elevate the Dolphins’ defense year after year. “Zach Thomas didn’t have the size of a typical NFL linebacker, but he had heart, speed, and a work ethic that was second to none,” said former Dolphins defensive coordinator Jim Bates. “He made the Dolphins’ defense feared, and this nomination is a step toward rightfully enshrining him among the game’s greats. The Miami Dolphins are proud to see one of their own get this recognition.”

Fame Nods for Former Players of the Miami Dolphins explores how these honors extend beyond individual players to celebrate the Dolphins’ team legacy. For example, the entire 1972 undefeated Dolphins team is being honored with a special "Legacy Award" at this year’s NFL Honors ceremony, recognizing the team’s historic achievement of going 17-0 (including playoffs) and winning Super Bowl VII. The award will be accepted by surviving members of the team, including Csonka, Warfield, and quarterback Bob Griese, and it serves as a tribute to the teamwork, discipline, and resilience that defined that iconic season. “The 1972 Dolphins aren’t just a part of Miami’s history—they’re a part of NFL history,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. “This Legacy Award is a way to honor not just their perfect record, but the way they played the game—with class, passion, and a commitment to excellence. The Miami Dolphins’ 1972 team set a standard that still inspires teams today.”

Fame Nods for Former Players of the Miami Dolphins wraps up with why these recognitions matter to current Dolphins players, fans, and the franchise as a whole. For current players, these fame nods serve as a reminder of the legacy they’re tasked with upholding—a standard of excellence set by Marino, Csonka, Thomas, and others. For fans, they’re a chance to revisit beloved eras of Dolphins football and celebrate the players who made them proud. For the franchise, they’re a way to honor its past while building toward its future. “Every time a former Dolphin gets recognized like this, it’s a win for our entire organization,” said current Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel. “It reminds us of where we’ve been and motivates us to get back to that level of success. These players aren’t just legends—they’re part of the Dolphins family, and we’re grateful to see their contributions celebrated.” Fame Nods for Former Players of the Miami Dolphins is more than just a story about awards—it’s a celebration of a franchise’s history, the players who shaped it, and the enduring bond between a team and its fans. As the Dolphins continue to chase their next Super Bowl title, these former players’ legacies will remain a guiding light, inspiring greatness for years to come.