The 2002 season was the Miami Dolphins' 33rd in the National Football League (NFL), their 37th overall and their third under head coach Dave Wannstedt.
The Dolphins failed to improve upon their previous season's output of 11–5, winning only nine games.
In the off-season, the Dolphins acquired running back Ricky Williams from the New Orleans Saints.
Despite the team not making the playoffs, he led the league with a career-high 16 rushing touchdowns.
Williams made the Pro Bowl following the season, taking home the game's MVP honors.