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NFL Divisional Round: Buffalo Bills @ Denver Broncs/SF 49ers @ Seattle Seahawks – Game Information & Discussion

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Please use this thread to follow this afternoon’s and evening’s NFL Divisional Round games and, as always, to discuss your Miami Dolphins. Please follow all site rules in the live threads and other posts on The Phinsider. Please note that SBNation strictly prohibits sharing illegal game streams. Sharing, discussing, or requesting illegal game streams may result in a temporary suspension from the site or a ban from the entire SBN platform.

We have everything you need to know to watch today’s game right here:

Buffalo Bills (13-5) AFC East @ Denver Broncos (14-3) AFC West​

  • Kickoff: 4:30 p.m. EST, Saturday, January 17th
  • Location: Empower Field at Mile High Stadium, Denver, Colorado
  • TV Broadcast: CBS
  • Streaming: Paramount+, NFL+
  • FANDUEL Sportsbook betting Odds: Spread: Broncos -1.5; Point total: 45.5; Moneyline: Broncos 118| Bills +100

SF 49ers (13-5) NFC West @ Seattle Seahawks (14-3) NFC West​

  • Kickoff: 8:00 p.m. EST, Saturday, January 17th
  • Location: Empower Lumen Field, Seattle, Washington
  • TV Broadcast: FOX
  • Streaming: FOX One, FOX Sports, NFL+
  • FANDUEL Sportsbook betting Odds: Spread: Seahawks -7; Point total: 44.5; Moneyline: Seahawks -320| 49ers +260

Source: https://www.thephinsider.com/miami-...-seattle-seahawks-game-information-discussion
 
Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady set for Sunday interview with Dolphins

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The Miami Dolphins are working their schedule for next week once the NFL’s rules allow in-person interviews starting Monday. They are not complete with their virtual meetings, however, as a report from NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero indicated on Saturday morning. Appearing on NFL Gameday Morning, Pelissero updated the Dolphins head coaching search, listing Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley as the “frontrunner” for the role. While focusing on Hafley in the segment, Pelissero added that the Dolphins will hold a virtual interview on Sunday with Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady.

Brady took over as the Bills’ interim offensive coordinator during the 2023 season, replacing Ken Dorsey when he was fired after a 5-5 start to the year. He dropped the interim title heading into 2024 season and has held the position since. Prior to assuming that role, he was the Bills quarterbacks coach starting in 2022.

He was the Carolina Panthers offensive coordinator in 2020 and 2021. He was the LSU passing game coordinator and wide receivers coach in 2019 after working as an offensive assistant with the New Orleans Saints in 2017 and 2018. He was a graduate assistant at Penn State the two years previous and starting his coaching career at William & Mary as the linebackers coach in 2013 and 2014.

Born in Hollywood, Florida, Brady grew up in Pembroke Pines, in the metaphorical shadows of the Dolphins’ Hard Rock Stadium.

If the Bills win on Saturday in their playoff game against the Denver Broncos, any interview beyond Sunday’s virtual meeting will be on hold until at least January 26, after the AFC Championship game. If Buffalo is eliminated from the postseason, it could clear the way for Brady to be added to Miami’s in-person schedule next week.

Source: https://www.thephinsider.com/miami-...w-updates-joe-brady-buffalo-bills-jeff-hafley
 
NFL Divisional Round: Houston Texans @ NE Patriots/LA Rams @ Chicago Bears – Game Information & Discussion

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Please use this thread to follow this afternoon’s and evening’s NFL Divisional Round games and, as always, to discuss your Miami Dolphins. Please follow all site rules in the live threads and other posts on The Phinsider. Please note that SBNation strictly prohibits sharing illegal game streams. Sharing, discussing, or requesting illegal game streams may result in a temporary suspension from the site or a ban from the entire SBN platform.

We have everything you need to know to watch today’s game right here:

Houston Texans (13-5) AFC South @ NE Patriots (15-3) AFC East​

  • Kickoff: 3:00 p.m. EST, Sunday, January 18th
  • Location: Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts
  • TV Broadcast: ABC
  • Streaming: ESPN, ESPN+, NFL+
  • FANDUEL Sportsbook betting Odds: Spread: Patriots -3.5; Point total: 40.5; Moneyline: Patriots 168| Texans +142

LA Rams (13-5) NFC West @ Chicago Bears (12-6) NFC North​

  • Kickoff: 6:30 p.m. EST, Sunday, January 18th
  • Location: Soldier Field, Chicago, Illinois
  • TV Broadcast: NBC
  • Streaming: NBC Sports, NFL+
  • FANDUEL Sportsbook betting Odds: Spread: Rams -3.5; Point total: 48.5; Moneyline: Rams 198| Bears +166

Source: https://www.thephinsider.com/miami-...ams-chicago-bears-game-information-discussion
 
A frontrunner emerges in Dolphins coaching search – The Splash Zone 1/19/26

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The Miami Dolphins are beginning their in person interviews for their vacant head coach position with reports of a frontrunner emerging. Kevin Stefanski was reported to be getting setup for a second interview with Miami, but he quickly accepted the Atlanta Falcons spot on Saturday. The Dolphins will meet today with Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator, Jeff Hafley, who has emerged as the favorite to land this job. He’s also schedule to meet with a few other teams after the Dolphins but if they want him, he might just be the new head coach of the Dolphins by the end of the night.

You can check out that story here, and the rest of the day’s round-up below.

Dolphins 2026 Head Coach Search Tracker: Could Monday Be the Day?
The Miami Dolphins are looking for the 12th full-time head coach in Dolphins history


Dolphins Head Coach Search​


Dolphins Coach Search: Is Hafley On the Way? And Why This Wouldn’t Be Philbin 2.0
The Miami Dolphins are set to begin a second round of interviews

Miami Dolphins coach search comes into focus: Why Jeff Hafley?
The Miami Dolphins’ head coaching search is coming into focus and Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley is squarely in play.

Three things to know about Chris Shula, the Rams assistant who interviewed for the Dolphins head coach vacancy on Friday
Get to know one of the names interviewing for the Dolphins head coach position.

Three things to know about Jeff Hafley, the reported front-runner for the Miami Dolphins head coaching vacancy
Get to know one of the names interviewing for the Dolphins head coach position.


Jon-Eric Sullivan​


Jon-Eric Sullivan’s Dolphins introduction includes a major focus on fixing one of Miami’s longest-standing problems
Talk about getting things off on the right foot…

Sullivan Speaks: Five Takeaways from New Dolphins GM’s First Interview
Jon-Eric Sullivan had some points comments about the Dolphins nucleus, how he wants to build the team, and more


Dolphins Offseason​


Dolphins’ 2025 draft class brings depth for new GM, coach
Though he lost his job midway through the season, former Dolphins general manager Chris Grier may have done the franchise a solid with its 2025 draft class.


Phinsider News You May Have Missed​


Who is the favorite to be the next Dolphins coach – The Splash Zone 1/17/26
Welcome to the Splash Zone, the quickest way to get your day started off right. We bring you a rundown of Miami Dolphins news from the last 24 hours.

Dolphins to hold in-person interview with Jeff Hafley
The Miami Dolphins are preparing for their second round of interviews, including with Jeff Hafley.

NFL Playoff odds 2026: Divisional Round winners picks and predictions
The Divisional Round features some great NFL playoff matchups. Who will win each game? Our contributors make their predictions.

Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady set for Sunday interview with Dolphins
The focus may be on Jeff Hafley right now, but Joe Brady enters the mix for the Miami Dolphins head coaching position on Sunday.

Jeff Hafley ‘frontrunner’ for Dolphins, ‘blew everyone away’ during virtual interview
The Dolphins are continuing their search for a new head coach, but it sounds like they may have an early favorite for the position.

Falcons hire Kevin Stefanski for head coaching vacancy
The Atlanta Falcons hired Kevin Stefanski on Saturday night, taking him off the available coaches list for the Miami Dolphins.

Dolphins set for busy Monday with three interviews
The Miami Dolphins will have a busy Monday with three interviews with head coaching candidates on the schedule.

Best quotes from Jon-Eric Sullivan’s first interview as Dolphins GM
A sit down with Sully, the new GM of the Miami Dolphins.

Source: https://www.thephinsider.com/the-sp...phins-coaching-search-the-splash-zone-1-19-26
 
Dolphins statements on new head coach Jeff Hafley

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The Miami Dolphins have announced the hiring of Jeff Hafley as the team’s new head coach. Hafley joins the Dolphins after two seasons as the Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator and replaces Mike McDaniel, who was fired after four seasons with the team.

Dolphins owner Stephen Ross released a statement after the announcement of Hafley’s hiring. “I believe great things are ahead for the Miami Dolphins with Jeff Hafley leading the way,” Ross stated. “Jeff is an accomplished coach with a proven track record as a leader and motivator. He has tenacity and grit, while at the same time establishing trust with his players in order to get the most out of them. I am excited to see where Jeff leads us, alongside [general manager] Jon-Eric Sullivan and our entire football operation, as we seek to return the Dolphins to sustained success.”

Welcome to Miami, Coach Hafley. 🤝 pic.twitter.com/99GEPZXf48

— Miami Dolphins (@MiamiDolphins) January 20, 2026

New general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan, who was hired las week and also joins the Dolphins from the Packers, said in a released statement, “Jeff is a man of integrity, intellect, and great passion who player will buy into and play for. He has a vision for the kind of team we will be and the ability to motivate them to move in one direction on the path towards that goal. I am thrilled to go on this journey with him and together we will build a winner that this organization deserves.”

The journey begins. pic.twitter.com/STcWHYqL3Z

— Miami Dolphins (@MiamiDolphins) January 20, 2026

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Dolphins and Hafley agreed to a five-year contract.

The resume 📝 pic.twitter.com/jqNVZkSPqW

— Miami Dolphins (@MiamiDolphins) January 20, 2026

Source: https://www.thephinsider.com/miami-...ews-statements-stephen-ross-jon-eric-sullivan
 
Jeff Hafley hired as Dolphins head coach – The Splash Zone 1/20/26

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It was reported over the weekend that Jeff Hafley was the frontrunner for the Miami Dolphins head coaching gig and he got it. Hafley is going to reunite with Jon-Eric Sullivan and they both have a ton of work to do to make the Dolphins relevant again. Hafley was the only candidate to receive a second interview with Miami and had plenty of other suitors if he left the building yesterday. It’s going to be a busy offseason as the Dolphins go through another reset, but it should be fun to follow along.

You can check out that story here, and the rest of the day’s round-up below.

Sources: Dolphins hiring Packers DC Jeff Hafley as new coach
The Miami Dolphins are hiring Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley to become their next head coach, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Monday.


Jeff Hafley​


Say hello to the next head coach of the Miami Dolphins, Jeff Hafley
Welcome to ‘Packers South’, Dolphins fans!

Analyzing All Sides of Jeff Hafley Becoming Dolphins New Head Coach
The Dolphins are making Hafley the franchise’s 12th full-time head coach.

Chris Perkins: Here’s Dolphins coach Jeff Hafley’s No. 1 task, and it’s a big one
It’s not a matter of “who” when we talk about the Miami Dolphins new head coach, it’s a matter of “what,” and the “what” is a winning mindset, a determined mentality and an aggressive disposition.

The Big Questions Regarding the Hafley Hiring
The Miami Dolphins reportedly have tabbed Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley as their new head coach

Dolphins And Media Excited About Imminent Jeff Hafley Hiring But Fans Are Wisely Wait-And-See
Dolphins continue pattern of ignoring fan sentiment with former Green Bay defensive coordinator selection

Now feels like a great time to revisit the endorsement new Dolphins coach Jeff Hafley got from his former boss in Green Bay
Quite the endorsement for the new lead man in Miami.

Dolphins GM slides his chips in favor of new coach Jeff Hafley | Habib
The Miami Dolphins just hired the guy who led a defense that ranked among the top dozen in the NFL the past two years.


Dolphins Quarterbacks​


Dolphins hire Jeff Hafley: Packers defensive coordinator replaces Mike McDaniel in Miami
Hafley leaves Green Bay after two seasons as defensive coordinator to take over in Miami.


Phinsider News You May Have Missed​


A frontrunner emerges in Dolphins coaching search – The Splash Zone 1/19/26
Welcome to the Splash Zone, the quickest way to get your day started off right. We bring you a rundown of Miami Dolphins news from the last 24 hours.

Dolphins have competition for top remaining head coaching candidate
Jeff Hafley to meet with Miami on Monday, however Tennesse Titans are also strongly interested in his services.

Bills fire head coach Sean McDermott; Could Miami pivot their search?
The Buffalo Bills fired Sean McDermott on Monday. Could he factor into the Miami Dolphins’ head coach search?

Anthony Weaver to get second interview with Ravens for head coaching job
Anthony Weaver to interview with Ravens for a second time on Tuesday.

Dolphins hire Jeff Hafley as head coach
The Miami Dolphins have hired their next head coach. Former Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley now has to turn around a struggling team.

Dolphins statements on new head coach Jeff Hafley
Dolphins owner Stephen Ross and general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan released statements following the team’s hiring of Jeff Hafley as the new head coach.

Source: https://www.thephinsider.com/the-sp...s-dolphins-head-coach-the-splash-zone-1-20-26
 
Your 2026-2027 Miaimi Dolphins Core Players

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Last week, I asked the following question about our Miami Dolphins roster and which core players should be held onto going forward to build the rest of the roster around:

Which current Miami Dolphins players do you believe the team must hold onto as the core of the roster going into the 2026-2027 NFL Season, and why? Additionally, which expiring contract players do you believe the team should re-sign and why?

Below are some of your thoughts and answers-

Alpha6 gave us a list of guys he wants sent packing and those he wants extended. Maybe we can get his core guys in this post.

Cut Candidates: Tyreek Hill; Austin Jackson; Ingold; Sanders; NWI; Tyrel Dodson; Chubb; Tua

Extension Candidates: Aaron Brewer; Jordyn Brooks; Minkah Fitzpatrick

The rest are under contract.

NeenerWhacker in reply to Alpha6 says hey, what about our best player on offense?

Achane extension? What do u think

BurstingFireLegend agrees with NeenerWhacker on Achane but sees why others could go either way.

I would extend Achane 100%

Brooks will likely expect a pay increase after being named 1st team all-pro and he’s on his final year of his deal. He’s also 28yrs old. Would it make sense to trade him? Clearly, we are better off with him in 2026, but long-term, does it matter? I could understand either direction.

heatforlife is not on board with everyone else when it comes to Achane.

nah at the usage rate hes good for a few more years .

BurstingFireLegend has another cut for us.

Cutting A.Jackson saves an entire 1.6mil. Don’t expect him to be cut nor should he be.

DalFinsFan wants to talk about guys we might be stuck with.

Chubb has too high of a dead cap to cut I think, kinda like Tua, might have to ride out 26 with them

SlayerNation1 points out that there’s not as much there as we might hope.

Paul, Brewer, maybe a few Rookie defensive players, only because of price.

Achane, I can see it a mile away: will get paid and production falls off a cliff, especially, with no other talent around Him.

Brooks may not reproduce this past season.

Chop is a, flat out, bust.

Everyone else is not foundational. It is a collection of JAGs.

They will rue not getting the draft capital for Waddle.

This team is years away due to the poor decisions.

JES and whomever is HC have the Herculean task of un##cking themselves.

The Earl understood the assignment.

Core players: Achane; Waddle; Paul; Brewer; Brooks; Sieler; Fitzpatrick

Potential to be core players: Chop; Grant; Marshall; Dulcich*; Wright; Kohou*

*assuming they are re-signed

coluccim has hope in some of the young guys.

Looking to the future – we have 1 young core player, an undersized fast RB.

Based on financials, Waddle should be traded after 2026 and we should be looking for a replacement now in the draft

Hopefully, some of the unheard from youth make big strides

Well, that’s our selection of answers for this evening. If you missed the original post from last week, given that there has been a ton of much more important Miami Dolphins news going on, please feel free to add your thoughts and answers to the comments section below. As always, thank you to each of you who took the time to answer our question of the day.

Source: https://www.thephinsider.com/miami-dolphins-news/114568/your-2026-2027-miaimi-dolphins-core-players
 
A tough road ahead for Sullivan and Hafley – The Splash Zone 1/21/26

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The Miami Dolphins have a new general manager, Jon-Eric Sullivan, and head coach, Jeff Hafley, in place and the hope is that these two can lead the Dolphins back to the promised land. This is not going to be an easy fix with the state of the team currently. They are going to have to take their lumps in year 1 as they transition this football team into their desired vision. Sullivan has already stated he wants to build through the draft, just like they did with the Green Bay Packers. The hope here is that with the same vision in mind between the GM and coach, the Dolphins can build a winning football team again.

You can check out that story here, and the rest of the day’s round-up below.

Dave Hyde: Can Sullivan and Hafley build the Dolphins a winner?
So, the Miami Dolphins’ Green Bay-based general manager hired the Green-Bay-based coach. It’s as simple as that. Maybe it’s as inspired as that, too.


Jeff Hafley​


Miami Dolphins hired Jeff Hafley: 5 reasons for optimism
The Miami Dolphins have hired Jeff Hafley, Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator, as their next head coach, succeeding Mike McDaniel.

Identifying Some Potential Coordinator (or Assistant) Candidates
The Miami Dolphins have their new head coach with Jeff Hafley, and the next order of business will be filling out his staff.

Former player says the quiet part out loud about why Jeff Hafley’s approach is vital to defining his tenure with the Dolphins
Miami is a unique place to coach for better or for worse.


Dolphins Rookies​


Examining the Pain Associated With the Dolphins’ All-Rookie Shutout
The Miami Dolphins got a lot of contributions from their rookie class, but there were no difference-makers


Dolphins Quarterbacks​


With ex-Packers at head coach and GM, logical answer to Dolphins replacing Tua Tagovailoa seems increasingly clear
As new Miami Dolphins general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan began a mental scroll of his roster, he began to describe the foundation of his franchise’s future.


Phinsider News You May Have Missed​


Jeff Hafley hired as Dolphins head coach – The Splash Zone 1/20/26
Welcome to the Splash Zone, the quickest way to get your day started off right. We bring you a rundown of Miami Dolphins news from the last 24 hours.

NFL head coaches: Retread or First Time hire?
Do first-time head coaches fail?

Dolphins to hold introductory press conference for new head coach and general manager later this week
Jeff Hafley and Jon-Eric Sullivan to be introduced in Miami this Thursday morning.

Your 2026-2027 Miaimi Dolphins Core Players
Miami Dolphins fans share which current players they see as core players for the roster going forward.

Source: https://www.thephinsider.com/the-sp...r-sullivan-and-hafley-the-splash-zone-1-21-26
 
Phinsider Question/Discussion Of The Day: Ranking The Miami Dolphins General Manager/Head Coaching Hires Edition

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Now that the dust has settled and our Miami Dolphins have hired a new general manager and head coach the team will be looking forward to hire and fill out their on the field staff as they also prepare for free agency and the draft. But what of those two big hires? How do you really feel about the new general manager and head coach? Did the team make the best possible choices they could in your opinion or should they have obviously gone in a different direction?

So tonight’s Phinsider Question Of The Day is:

What grade (A-F) would you give each of the two big hires by our Miami Dolphins for head coach and general manager? Beyond the grade do you believe they got the best possible man for the job in both cases and if not who would you had rather seen the team pursue and why?

Please share your thoughts and answers in the comments section below-

Source: https://www.thephinsider.com/miami-...s-general-manager-head-coaching-hires-edition
 
Miami Dolphins coach search: Who could be Jeff Hafley’s offensive coordinator?

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The Miami Dolphins will hold a press conference on Thursday, officially introducing former Green Bay Packers Vice President of Player Personnel Jon-Eric Sullivan as the team’s new General Manager and former Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley as the new head coach. Two of the major pieces of the rebuild Miami will undergo during the 2026 offseason are now in place, allowing the team to begin its planning for free agency, the NFL Draft, and the 2026 season.

One of the next questions that needs to be answered is who will fill out Hafley’s first coaching staff. Both coordinator positions need to be named, along with the various position groups. A first-time head coach needs to find the right assistants to help him transition into the new job. He could look for a coach who has head coaching experience to give him an internal check-and-balance system. He could look to coaches with whom he has previously worked, giving him people who already know the system he wants to run and how the players can fit into it.

Building the staff will be a key event for Hafley and the Dolphins. But, who could he hire? Since Hafley came up on the defensive side, finding the right offensive coordinator to help him install the best system possible could be critical to turning around an underperforming Miami team. This morning, we take a look at some of the offensive coordinator candidates who may be available for Hafley.

Joe Brady, Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator​


Miami held a virtual interview with Brady for the head coaching position, ultimately hiring Hafley for the position. But, could Hafley reach out to see if Brady – who might be an internal hire for the Bills as their next head coach – would move to South Florida? His motion forcing mismatches is similar to Mike McDaniel’s offense, but he does seem to spread the ball a little more (not getting focused on Tyreek Hill as the first, second, and third option) and he has proven he remembers the running game exists – James Cook led the league with over 1600 rushing yards this year. Brady is in demand for multiple positions with multiple teams, so he might be a tough sell.

Starting his coaching career in 2013 at William & Mary, Brady moved from linebackers coach to a graduate assistant at Penn State in 2015 then to an offensive assistant with the New Orleans Saints in 2017. In 2019 he spent a season as the passing game coordinator and wide receivers coach at LSU before being named the offensive coordinator for the Carolina Panthers for two years. In 2022, he joined the Bills, first as the quarterbacks coach then taking over as the offensive coordinator during the 2023 season.

Brian Angelichio, Minnesota Vikings passing game coordinator​


Angelichio is an interesting name to watch for the Dolphins’ position. Working as the passing game coordinator and tight ends coach since 2022, Angelichio and Hafley have worked together at Pitt (2006-2010), Rutgers (2011), the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2012-2013), and the Cleveland Browns (2014-2015). He has primarily worked as a tight ends coach for much of his career, but he does have some offensive coordinator experience at Ithaca College from 2000 to 2005.

Brian Callahan, former Tennessee Titans head coach​


Callahan only lasted six games into his second season with Tennessee, finishing his tenure with a 4-19 record. It was not a glorious transition into his first head coaching role, but it could mean he is set to return to an offensive coordinator role. He was the Cincinnati Bengals’ offensive coordinator from 2019 through 2023, working with quarterback Joe Burrow after the team selected him first overall in the 2020 NFL Draft. As a quarterbacks coach with the Detroit Lions from 2016 to 2017, Callahan worked directly with then-Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford, helping to improve his passer rating to a career high at the time.

During his career, Callahan has worked at the high school, college, and NFL levels, including with the Denver Broncos, Detroit Lions, Oakland Raiders, Bengals, and Titans. He is the son of former Raiders and University of Nebraska head coach, and current Atlanta Falcons offensive line coach, Bill Callahan.

Brian Daboll, former New York Giants head coach​


The former Giants head coach could be one of the top offensive coordinators on the market this year. Not only does he have head coaching experience, he has a track record of quarterback development (see Josh Allen with the Buffalo Bills) and has tailored his system to be a power-running game rather than a pass first scheme (see Alabama). He could immediately take charge of the offense, freeing Hafley to work on the defense and transitioning into a true head coach. He would have to prove that he can get along with the players and the coaching staff, something that has not always been apparent in previous stops. He is in the mix to return to Buffalo as their head coach.

Before his stint with the Giants, Daboll was Buffalo’s offensive coordinator from 2018 to 2021. He worked one season as the offensive coordinator at Alabama following four years as the tight ends coach with the New England Patriots. He has also had stints as the offensive coordinator with the Kansas City Chiefs, the Dolphins, and the Cleveland Browns.

Mike Kafka, New York Giants offensive coordinator (interim head coach)​


The Giants fired head coach Brian Daboll during the 2025 season, with offensive coordinator Mike Kafka working as the team’s interim head coach. The Giants’ hiring of former Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh this offseason was in part due to the play of quarterback Jaxson Dart, with Kafka playing a big role in the rookie’s adjustment to the NFL. A former NFL quarterback, Kafka was in his first role as an offensive coordinator and is likely to land the same role somewhere in 2026 due to Dart’s development. New York finished the year fifth in rushing offense, which could be a good sign for Achane if Kafka were to join Hafley’s staff.

Kafka spent five seasons in the NFL, primarily as a practice squad player. He appeared in four game with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2011. He moved into coaching in 2016 as a graduate assistant at Northwestern before moving to the NFL as the offensive quality control coach for the Kansas City Chiefs in 2017. He served as the Chiefs’ quarterbacks coach from 2018 through 2021, adding the passing game coordinator title for the last two seasons before joining the Giants in 2022 as their offensive coordinator. New York added assistant head coach to his title in 2024 and 2025.

Kliff Kingsbury, former Washington Commanders offensive coordinator​


Kingsbury would bring with him experience as both an NFL and a college head coach, which could be beneficial for Hafley. The air-raid offensive system may not be exactly what Hafley wants, but if the Dolphins are completely rebuilding the team, they could make that adjustment. The college game has transitioned into such a heavy shotgun system that Kingsbury’s offense might be exactly what a newly drafted quarterback needs to make the transition into the NFL. Kingsbury has not proven he is willing to adapt his offense to the players, but rather expects players to conform to the system – which could be an issue depending on who stays in Miami and how the 2026 NFL Draft plays out.

The former NFL and CFL quarterback started his coaching career in 2008 at the University of Houston, working his way up to co-offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach by 2011. In 2012, he was hired as the offensive coordinator at Texas A&M before becoming the head coach at Texas Tech from 2013 to 2018. In 2019, he moved to the NFL as the head coach of the Arizona Cardinals, remaining through 2022. After a year as an offensive analyst for USC, he was hired in 2024 as the Washington Commanders’ offensive coordinator.

Anthony Lynn, Washington Commanders running backs coach​


Lynn brings with him offensive coordinator and head coaching experience and could be a great mentor/resource for Hafley. A former NFL running back, Lynn has been coaching since 2000, including stints as the Buffalo Bills and Detroit Lions offensive coordinator and the Los Angeles Chargers head coach. He is expected to interview with the Bills for their head coaching position this year.

He started his coaching career with the Denver Broncos as a special teams assistant in 2000 before moving to the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2003 as their running backs coach. He continued in that role with the Dallas Cowboys in 2005 and 2006 before a move to the Cleveland Browns for 2007 and 2008. He spent six years with the New York Jets, primarily as the running backs coach but adding assistant head coach to his title for the 2013 and 2014 seasons. In 2015, he moved to the Buffalo Bills where he worked various roles, including running backs coach, offensive coordinator, assistant head coach, and interim head coach in two seasons. He was the Chargers’ head coach from 2017 to 2020, then was the Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator in 2021. After two seasons as the running backs coach and assistant head coach with the San Francisco 49ers, he joined the Commanders in 2024.

Sean Mannion, Green Bay Packers quarterbacks coach​


Mannion’s coaching career is all of two years old, working as an offensive assistant with the Packers in 2024 and as their quarterbacks coach in 2025. A former third-round draft pick of the St. Louis Rams in 2015, Mannion had an eight-year career as a quarterback, primarily working as a backup/practice squad player. Last week he was named the offensive coordinator for the East-West Shrine Bowl and is a quickly rising, familiar option for Hafley

Todd Monken, Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator​


After the Ravens fired Harbaugh this offseason, the coach joined the New York Giants in the same role. Monken spent the last three years as Harbaugh’s offensive coordinator and could follow him to New York, though he has also interviewed as a potential head coaching candidate this offseason. If the Dolphins could entice Monken to move to South Florida, he would bring a balanced offensive attack, which could maximize the potential of running back De’Von Achane, especially as the Dolphins figure out their quarterback position.

Monken has been the offensive coordinator with the Ravens (2023-2025), the University of Georgia (2020-2022), with the Cleveland Browns (2019), the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2016-2018), Oklahoma State University (2011-2012), and Eastern Michigan University (1998-1999). He was the head coach at Southern Miss from 2013 through 2015.

Zac Robinson, Atlanta Falcons offensive coordinator​


Robinson has spent two years as the Falcons’ offensive coordinator. The Atlanta offense finished 14th this year in total offense (333.0 yards per game), but in 2024, before quarterback injuries impacted the Falcons’ offense, Robinson’s system ranked sixth in total offense (369.8 yards per game). With quarterback Michael Penix, Jr., missing eight games this season, the running game became more important to Atlanta’s offense attack, finishing the year eighth in rushing offense (125.8 yards per game).

Prior to being hired as Atlanta’s offensive coordinator in 2024, Robinson spent five seasons with the Los Angeles Rams, working as an assistant quarterback coach, assistant wide receivers coach, and passing game coordinator/quarterbacks coach during that span. A former NFL quarterback, Robinson spent time with the Bengals, Lions, and Seahawks over four years.

Nate Scheelhaase, Los Angeles Rams passing game coordinator​


Scheelhaase only started his coaching career in 2015, and he is on the fast track toward being a coordinator. The Sean McVay pipeline is a benefit in that rise, but he has only been with the Rams for two seasons, so it is not only the McVay coaching tree that has him in consideration. He might not be the perfect coordinator right now, but he could be someone that might develop alongside Hafley as the Dolphins evolve into this next version of the club.

Initially hired into the football operations staff at the University of Illinois in 2015, Scheelhaase moved that season into the running backs coach position. In 2018, he spent the year in the same position at Iowa State before moving to the wide receivers, then combining both position groups under his position in 2021. In 2023, he was named the offensive coordinator. He moved to the Rams in 2024 as a passing game specialist, assuming the passing game coordinator title this season.

David Shaw, Detroit Lions passing game coordinator​


The Lions, with Shaw in his first year as the passing game coordinator, finished 2025 as the third-ranked passing offense, throwing for an average of 253.1 yards per game. Where Shaw’s resume is even better, however, is his time at the collegiate level, particularly at Stanford. In 19 seasons at the university, Shaw worked his way from offensive coordinator to head coach, holding the top spot for 12 years. His 2010 season as the team’s offensive coordinator included game planning for quarterback Andrew Luck, who finished the year as a Heisman Trophy finalist, but also featured a running game that was 17th in the nation that season.

At the NFL level, Shaw has experience with the Philadelphia Eagles, Oakland Raiders, Baltimore Ravens, and the Lions. He also spent the 2024 season in the front office of the Denver Broncos as a personnel executive. Along with his time at Stanford, his college experience includes time at Western Washington University and University of San Diego, where he was the passing game coordinator and wide receiver coach on Jim Harbaugh’s staff.

Steve Shimko, Dallas Cowboys quarterbacks coach​


Shimko has only four seasons of NFL experience as a coach, working as an offensive assistant and an assistant quarterbacks coach for the Seattle Seahawks in 2018 and 2019 and then as an offensive assistant and quarterbacks coach for the Cowboys the last two seasons. However, his college experience could be a huge signal that he is on Hafley’s radar. Shimko was the tight ends coach at Boston College in 2020 and 2021, then the quarterbacks coach in 2022, and the offensive coordinator in 2023. The Boston College head coach for those four seasons was Hafley. Could a reunion happen in Miami?

Shimko is not the offensive coordinator in Dallas, but he is involved in the scheming and play calling, with head coach Brian Schottenheimer asking for input from Shinko on plays for specific players.

Bobby Slowik, Miami Dolphins senior passing game coordinator​


The Dolphins have an experienced offensive coordinator still under contract who could be in consideration. Slowik joined Mike McDaniel’s staff in 2025, reuniting the two who had worked together previously with the Washington Commanders and San Francisco 49ers. The Dolphins passing offense was not great this past season, but that seems to be more based on the regression of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa than on anything Slowik was doing in his coordinator role. Prior to joining McDaniel in Miami, Slowik worked for two years as the offensive coordinator with the Houston Texans.

Prior to Miami and Houston, he worked his way from defensive quality control coach to offensive assistant to offensive pass game specialist to offensive passing game coordinator with the 49ers in a four-year span. He was with Washington as a defensive assistant from 2011 to 2013. The Philadelphia Eagles are expected to interview him for their offensive coordinator position.

Adam Stenavich, Green Bay Packers offensive coordinator​


This one would be interesting. Technically, Stenavich is a current offensive coordinator, which would allow the Packers to deny an interview and could lead to a trade needing to be made, but Stenavich does not call plays with the Packers – head coach Matt LaFleur covers that – and there seems to be some discussion of needing to bring in a new coordinator in Green Bay. Hafley (and general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan) knows Stenavich and could look to him to provide a stabilizing force on the offensive side of the ball – but he would have to be ready to call plays for the offense.

An offensive lineman during his NFL career, Stenavich started coaching in 20112 as a strength and conditioning intern and graduate assistant at the University of Michigan. He was hired by Northern Arizona University in 2014 as their offensive line coach, then he moved to San Jose State University in 2015 for the same role. He was hired by the San Francisco 49ers in 2017 as an assistant offensive line coach before moving to the Packers as their offensive line coach in 2019. He added run game coordinator responsibilities in 2021 then was named the offensive coordinator in 2022.

Israel Woolfork, Arizona Cardinals quarterbacks coach​


The Cardinals finished 2025 as the seventh-ranked passing offense, averaging 232.6 yards per game, with quarterbacks Jacoby Brissett and Kyler Murray both starting portions of the season.

Woolfork started his coaching career in 2013 at Miami University (Ohio) before joining the Cleveland Browns in 2021. He moved to the Cardinals in 2023.

Source: https://www.thephinsider.com/miami-...coach-rumors-offensive-coordinator-candidates
 
Phinsider Question/Discussion Of The Day: 2026-2027 Season QB Edition

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By now, just about everyone associated with our Miami Dolphins believes that former starting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has taken his last snap as a Dolphin or at least his last snap as the starter for the team. I think the bigger question surrounding Tua is how the team will manage to get him off the roster, given his horrible contract and the very negative cap implications. It also seems as if rookie and late-season fill-in Quinn Ewers is unlikely to be the long-term answer at the position (although I could see Ewers developing into a good long-term answer at backup). Zack Wilson was also given a chance to reboot his career in Miami, but looks to only be a somewhat viable answer at backup for a game here and there, and that might be generous.

So all of that leaves us with what does this team do at quarterback this upcoming season? Do they just ride it out with Ewers until the 2027 NFL draft, when there is reportedly a much better crop of quarterbacks set to leave college? Do they dive into free agency with the hopes of finding someone who is, at the very least, serviceable until they can bring in someone else? Do they try to find a hidden gem in the upcoming draft despite having so many other holes to fill?

So with all of that, this evening’s Phinsider Question Of The Day is:

What do you want to see your Miami Dolphins do this offseason to address the quarterback situation, be that a permanent answer or just for a guy to get the team by until the right guy comes along in the draft? AKA What would you do if you were the Miami Dolphins’ new General Manager?

Please share your thougths and answers in the comments section below-

Source: https://www.thephinsider.com/miami-...ussion-of-the-day-2026-2027-season-qb-edition
 
Dolphins introduced Sullivan and Hafley – The Splash Zone 1/23/26

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The Miami Dolphins introduced their new general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan and head coach Jeff Hafley to the media yesterday. A new era of football is underway for the Dolphins as owner Stephen Ross decided it was time to start over with a clean slate. Sullivan stated that he wants to build the team up through the draft and that is refreshing to hear after how the Dolphins went about trading away their picks for star players over the past few years.

You can check out that story here, and the rest of the day’s round-up below.

Dolphins usher in new era, introducing GM Jon-Eric Sullivan and coach Jeff Hafley
The week has been a whirlwind for both new Miami Dolphins coach Jeff Hafley and general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan.


Jon-Eric Sullivan​


10 Things on Dolphins New GM Jon-Eric Sullivan’s To-Do List
It’s will be a busy offseason for Miami’s new head decision-maker.

Miami Dolphins will try Green Bay Way. Think meat and potatoes. | Schad
NFL Hall of Fame quarterbacks Dan Marino and Troy Aikman ― once flashy, exciting superstars ― sat in the front row for the latest introduction of a new Miami Dolphins general manager and head coach.

Dolphins go for hard reset as GM says ‘when we hoist that trophy …
It was a day of firsts for the Miami Dolphins — the first time owner Stephen Ross introduced a general manager and head coach all at once, the first time Jon-Eric Sullivan stepped into the GM role and the first time Jeff Hafley took on the title of head coach in the NFL.

It turns out Stephen Ross had one hell of a pitch to Jon-Eric Sullivan and it helped seal the deal for the Dolphins’ new general manager
“I think we all know not every place is like that.”


Jeff Hafley​


Insider Explains Why Dolphins Hit With Hafley
The Miami Dolphins made Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley the 12th head coach in franchise history


Dolphins Quarterbacks​


Analyzing the Competition for Malik Willis
Miami feels like a natural landing spot for the young QB, but he’ll have plenty of suitors this offseason.

Analyzing Dolphins GM Jon-Eric Sullivan’s Comments About Tua
The new general manager was asked about Tua and Quinn Ewers Wednesday.


Dolphins Offensive Line​


The new Dolphins regime faces an important expiration date for one of their first major decisions and it will be here before you know it
There’s a lot of moving parts this offseason but some are less flexible than others.


Dolphins Offseason​


We are focused on the wrong part of the Miami Dolphins’ looming offseason strategy amid their challenging salary cap situation
Are we sure we’re asking the right question?


Phinsider News You May Have Missed​


A tough road ahead for Sullivan and Hafley – The Splash Zone 1/21/26
Welcome to the Splash Zone, the quickest way to get your day started off right. We bring you a rundown of Miami Dolphins news from the last 24 hours.

NFL Insiders Predict Dolphins to Land Packers’ Free Agent QB in Offseason
Could the Miami Dolphins replace Tua Tagovailoa with Malik Willis this offseason?

Buffalo Bills request Anthony Weaver for head coaching interview
Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver receives yet another head coaching interview request.

Mel Kiper’s Latest Mock Draft Has Miami Dolphins Going Defense in Round 1
ESPN’s latest mock draft has the Miami Dolphins adding a much-needed presence on the defensive line..

Miami Dolphins coach search: Who could be Jeff Hafley’s offensive coordinator?
The Miami Dolphins are building their new coaching staff. Who could be on the offensive coordinator list?

Phinsider Question/Discussion Of The Day: Ranking The Miami Dolphins General Manager/Head Coaching Hires Edition
We ask Miami Dolphins Fans for their rankings and takes on the new GM and HC.

Dolphins request Texans QB coach for OC interview
Jerrod Johnson requested by Miami Dolphins for offensive coordinator interview.

Source: https://www.thephinsider.com/the-sp...d-sullivan-and-hafley-the-splash-zone-1-23-26
 
Dolphins hire Kyle Smith as new assistant general manager

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The Miami Dolphins are hiring Kyle Smith as their new assistant GM, as per Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.

The Dolphins are hiring Kyle Smith as their assistant GM, per source.

Smith, who most recently held the same title in Atlanta, is a respected evaluator. Another big addition to Miami’s staff. pic.twitter.com/EcFJsXBlCF

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) January 23, 2026

Smith, 41, has worked in the NFL since 2010. He joined the Washington Redskins in 2010 as a scouting intern, and worked his way up to vice president of player personnel by 2020. Smith left Washington in 2021, and joined the Atlanta Falcons as assistant general manager, working directly under Terry Fontenot at the time.

Interestingly enough, this is a lateral move for Smith, who will be working in the same role with the Dolphins, reporting to general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan. However, given Fontenot was recently fired from the Falcons, the move makes sense for Smith.

Per reports, Smith played a key role in the 2025 draft for the Falcons, who had a very successful rookie class. Here’s a clip of Smith talking about James Pearce Jr., who led all rookies with 10.5 sacks last season.

New Dolphins Assistant GM Kyle Smith breaking down Atlanta's selection of James Pearce Jr., who had 10.5 sacks as a rookie 👇

Smith will be tasked with helping Miami find reinforcements at EDGE going forward #PhinsUp 🐬 pic.twitter.com/Kv2MzBHuaL

— The List – Dolphins Podcast (@TheListFinsPod) January 23, 2026

Smith also seems to have familiarity with the “Green Bay Packers” model of drafting quarterbacks, which general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan recently spoke about in his first press conference with the team as well. When asked about his plans for the team at quarterback, Sullivan mentioned the desire to “draft a quarterback every single year, if possible.”

The Miami Dolphins’ new assistant GM, Kyle Smith, comes with the added experience of being a key piece in a unique QB draft, where Atlanta took Michael Penix shortly after signing Kirk Cousins.

Here he is speaking on “the Green Bay model”, explaining how there is no exact… pic.twitter.com/zWa4x299tm

— Tyler DeSena (@desena_tyler) January 23, 2026

The Dolphins have certainly shaken things up this offseason, and the addition of Smith to the front office is only the latest move. After former general manager Chris Grier was let go in October, his assistants were soon to go as well. Longtime co-directors of player personnel Adam Engroff and Anthony Hunt were fired in November, and assistant general manager Marvin Allen was let go in January.

It remains to be seen how much of an impact Smith will have on the team, but one thing is for sure—the Dolphins are cleaning house and leaving no stone unturned. After nearly two decades of mediocrity, that can only be a good thing.

Source: https://www.thephinsider.com/genera...e-kyle-smith-as-new-assistant-general-manager
 
The Tua Tagovailoa decision – The Splash Zone 1/24/26

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Jon-Eric Sullivan and Jeff Hafley with the media on Thursday for the first time and one of the questions directed towards Sullivan was the quarterback position. It still sounds like the Miami Dolphins are prepared to move on from QB Tua Tagovailoa despite the salary cap implications. Sullivan really didn’t state anything in particular about the quarterback room, but did state that they would likely invest in the position in every draft. Which is something the past regimes just haven’t done in Miami.

You can check out that story here, and the rest of the day’s round-up below.

Tua Tagovailoa looms as the Dolphins’ elephant in the room as a new regime arrives — and a new report doubles down on Miami’s mindset
Are the Dolphins and Tua Tagovailoa still headed towards a divorce this offseason?


Jon-Eric Sullivan​


Breaking Down New Dolphins GM’s Game Plan
Jon-Eric Sullivan is hoping the Green Bay way brings success to the Miami Dolphins


Jeff Hafley​


Hafley Reveals Key Updates on Coaching Staff, QB Plans
Jeff Hafley went on The Joe Rose Show Friday morning.

Jeff Hafley sounds ready to extinguish one of the Miami Dolphins’ most damaging stereotypes in a new interview
Jeff Hafley sounds ready to retire the ‘Dolphins Country Club’ stigma.

Inside Hafley’s Journey From D-III to the Dolphins
The Miami Dolphins’ new head coach proved the power of perseverance


Dolphins Quarterbacks​


New Dolphins head coach Jeff Hafley lays out what he needs in a franchise quarterback
“I want a winner.”

Dolphins GM Jon-Eric Sullivan gets it: Keep drafting QBs!
The word — famine — jumps off the page at you, part of a description of an NFL franchise stumbling through darkness for the better part of a quarter century.


Dolphins Special Teams​


Miami Dolphins begin filling coordinator roles with special teams
One day after introducing general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan and coach Jeff Hafley, the Miami Dolphins went to work on filling other positions in their front office and coaching staff, including hiring veteran Chris Tabor as special teams coordinator, according to multiple reports.


Dolphins Offseason​


Dave Hyde: Partnership with a good plan takes over troubled Dolphins
They presented themselves as a partnership, side by side, the new Miami Dolphins general manager and new coach, showing from their first words what’s different and at work this time.


Phinsider News You May Have Missed​


Dolphins introduced Sullivan and Hafley – The Splash Zone 1/23/26
Welcome to the Splash Zone, the quickest way to get your day started off right. We bring you a rundown of Miami Dolphins news from the last 24 hours.

Mike McDaniel, Anthony Weaver set to interview for Buffalo Bills HC opening
Could the Buffalo Bills next head coach be a former Miami Dolphins playcaller?

Phinsider Victory Of The Week Open Thread & Discussion Vol. 662
Join us on Friday evening’s to share your victory of the week and to discuss your Miami Dolphins.

Source: https://www.thephinsider.com/the-sp...a-tagovailoa-decision-the-splash-zone-1-24-26
 
Miami Dolphins Fans Rank The General Manager & Head Coach Hires

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Our Miami Dolphins hired a new general manager, Jon-Eric Sullivan, and a new head coach, Jeff Hafley, this past week. After those two hires, I followed with the question:

What grade (A-F) would you give each of the two big hires by our Miami Dolphins for head coach and general manager? Beyond the grade, do you believe they got the best possible man for the job in both cases, and if not, who would you have rather seen the team pursue and why?

Below are some of your thougths and answers-

CardiacPackM8 stopped in to share some insight into the two new hires. Sounds good!

You guys are going to love both of these guys.

I knew Hafley was going to be a head coach somewhere eventually. You just knew it from the first time you heard him speak in Green Bay. He just spoke like a head coach. I know he had been at BC but he was taking over a defense that, frankly, sucked and underachieved for years. Hell, that’s been the story of our franchise for the last 10-12 years. Haf got a lot from these guys on defense even with all the bad habits they picked up from Joe Barry and even with all the injuries. I loved listened to his pressers every single week because he isn’t a BS’er. He was going to explain things so you could understand and he’d even diagram a damn play on the board for the media members to drive his point across. He is genuine and, as he said today, what you see is what you get. Funny guy, too. I think he is going to be really good for you guys.

Sullivan, the same. He has been here forever and we normally hear him every year at the Packers front office press conferences after the Draft. He knows his shit. We’ve had immense talent on our roster for many of the last 7-8 years not to mention in the 2010s. That’s never been the issue in GB.

Just two really solid people who are going to grind and do everything they can to make this team better. Players are going to want to play their asses off for Haf.

Molly Polly II is happy with the hires at the top, but is more concerned about the rest of the foot soldiers.

Both have my vote. They certainly have the experience and hopefully it pays offs off for us. I am concerned about OC n DC, including Asst Coaching positions. Maybe consider recruiting Jason Taylor from the Hurricanes (or is it too soon)? Lucky for these guys, unless they completely F up, the only direction they can move this organization is upwards!

DolfaninME believes the real problems lie at the feet of the local media and us, the fans.

The real problem Miami is entitled media and fans. The expectation of winning a super bowl in year 3 or four is unrealistic. So we are on this roller coaster again. McDaniel was a good coach. He thought Tua’s quick read and release could compensate for a weak OL. It can’t. I believe he has learned this and will be an excellent HC somewhere in the future.

The new guys will also have a lot to learn. Before they get fired in 3 years.

Dolphindon52 says you need to get over the whole Ross thing, or kick rocks, I guess.

To those of you who keeps saying nothing is going to change until Ross sells the team, get over it or pick another team. It’s already been established. The team is staying in the family.

As for me…..GO PHINS!!

David7777 somehow believes that Tomlin is still coming, we just have to wait a bit!?!?!

Hopefully this guy is just a placeholder for Mike Tomlin when he comes back as our head coach after a year off

THEphinz is all in on these hires.

I give both an “A”.

I base this on their comments on size, playing in bad conditions, and setting culture.

Additionally both guys seem hungry. Like theyve got something to prove. Much more “no nonsense” but with the ability to connect the dots for the players and make the feedback make sense

dksurf thinks there is some risk in hiring two novices for their jobs.

Tough to say.

Starting with the Head coach hire he has a had a very mediocre track record including going 22-26 over 4 years at BC and only 1 year as the DC for the Packers where they ranked 9th and 10th in pass and run defense and zero NFL head coaching exoeriece

Meanwhile the GM history has similarities to the guy we just fired, appearing to be a lifer (22 years) with the Packers starting as a scout, with zero NFL GM experience.

In summary the upside is the Packers have been a more stable successful organization and the GM does have a track record of investing in premium positions, while the HC has had some success as a defensice minded coach. The risk, again for the Fins, is we hired 2 novices into their roles.

Bill Moody doesn’t really know what to think yet.

The GM is saying all the right things, and the fact that he isn’t Chris Grier is a huge plus. But other than that, I don’t really know much about the guy, so I can’t really grade him until we see his draft.

The coach is a complete unknown. The only thing I know about him is that his defense gave up like 28 points in the 4th quarter against the Bears to be bounced from the play-offs. That’s it… That’s all I know. Again, I can’t really grade him since I know nothing about him.

TheRoo1 gives us some pros and cons on both.

Sully B+

Pro’s Long term in successful franchise, has served in many capacities, doesn’t want quick flash, develop and support draftees, from fiscally conservative franchise,

Con’s doesn’t appear to have been main decision maker previously, not sure of negotiating skills, limited exposure to players or coaches outside Packers organization.

Hafley B-

Pro’s, Has experience in Packers system, prior familiarity with GM, appears driven to player development, Prior HC experience (although at college level). Was defensive playcaller in GB. Apparently well respected by players.

Con’s Limited network in NFL for assistants, No NFL offensive experiences, unknown gameday time management, challenge or other sideline processes,

This is an outsider looking in with no close or personal knowledge beyond whats readily available online. I’m sure there are plenty of other things covered in the meetings, how much Sully was involved in Cap planning etc that we reallydont know. These are just of f the top of my head.

MiamiItaliano gives them a B!

I give the hires a B grade. We’ll see if J.E.S. and Hafley turn this franchise into where the players think about football first, not partying in South Beach.

I would have liked McDermott when he became available. I’m also surprised nobody interviewed Joe Lombardi. If Bo Nix didn’t get hurt, the Broncos would have a legit shot to get to the Super Bowl. With Stidham, not so much.

Alpha6 says all things considered, they did pretty well.

Under the circumstances, based on available candidates… I give them an A.

Fresh & culture change.

A new chapter brings a new direction.

New characters with a new twist.

Letting the twist develop in the coming months…

Dolfanjoe is taking the sound wait and see posistion.

100 % They have made the right decision ! What are we supposed to say ? They screwed up completely ? 6 years down the road we will have the answers to if they hired the right combo. If in year four both are fired and we are 3 – 14 we might not be a happy crowd ! But until then who knows !

SlayerNation1 says the grade is incomplete at this point.

INCOMPLETE

… which is better than:

Grier F, He failed

McD F, He ultimately failed also

Will these two actually change the culture and talent or will the bad culture and bad talent change both of them? Which of those forces will win?

Saskatchefin really wanted McDermott.

Right now, I would say a B. Hafley does have experience as a head coach in college so he should be proficient in play calling. I did like Weaver as I heard multiple times he had the locker. I will drop it to a C if they don’t let Weaver get picked up from another team to collect draft picks. A if they can create the culture change.

As for some comments on defense, both ours and GB. Take into consideration for us we had no DBs. All hurt in preseason. I think Weaver should have been interviewed.

As for the GB loss, 28 points, simmer down. It was a playoff game in Chicago, Ben Johnson had that team playing a team game, and Chicago’s defense was good as well. Hafley, had Parsons go down. If you wanted to be critical like that then I can’t imagine your thoughts on Sean Payton’s defense when Miami went off. There defense played way stronger after that beat down and some of that is pride.

For me, I wanted Sean McDermott. 9 seasons HC for Bills, every year in playoffs. How do you fire that guy?

Just my 2 cents

phinsatx sees the hires as solid right now.

They seem like solid hires. We didn’t really seem to chase shiny objects or embarrass ourselves by hounding candidates that didn’t want to be here in the hiring process. So, that seems like an upgrade. There were a lot of temptations too.

I like the message of building through the draft and coaching the players up, so the talk of the walk/talk seems appealing. Obviously, 2026 could be a terrible season, so it is hard to be too psyched about any of it. I think I’m more curious to see how the offseason and draft go. That may be a big part of the walk the walk. Not saying they have a blank check, but I think they have a lot of room to do what is best for the future.

I also think this is a team that has been to the playoffs somewhat recently and is hovering around 500, so there is some weird expectation for them not to be awful and maintain some level of mediocrity. Unless by some miracle, they stick the landing and turn it around in one year, but that seems like a lot to wish for.

Well, that’s our random 15 for this evening. It seems most of the fan base is either on board with these two hires or in a wait-and-see mode. If you missed the original post, you can see it HERE with the rest of the fans’ comments. As always, thank you to each of you who took the time to read and answer our question of the day. Please be sure to join us tomorrow for our Conference Championships live thread.

Source: https://www.thephinsider.com/miami-...ans-rank-the-general-manager-head-coach-hires
 
Dolphins promote Bobby Slowik to offensive coordinator

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The Miami Dolphins have a new offensive coordinator.

Bobby Slowik, who previously held the title of senior passing game coordinator with the Dolphins in 2025, has been promoted to the team’s offensive coordinator position, per Ian Rapoport on X.

Sources: The #Dolphins are hiring Bobby Slowik, their senior passing game coordinator, as the new offensive coordinator.

The former #Texans OC helped CJ Stroud to his stellar rookie season. Now, he’s back as a play-caller in Miami. pic.twitter.com/5FjljGtPIm

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 24, 2026

Slowik has two seasons of experience as an NFL offensive coordinator, working for the Houston Texans in 2023 and 2024. Slowik was widely credited for then-rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud’s record-breaking season in 2023. That season, Stroud threw for 4,108 passing yards, 23 touchdowns, just five interceptions, and boasted a completion percentage of 63.9% and a passer rating of 100.8. Stroud set many records that year on his way to winning Offensive Rookie of the Year, most notably the most consecutive pass attempts to start a career without an interception (192), and the most passing yards in a single game by a rookie (470).

However, Stroud and the Texans offense took a dip in 2024, dropping from 12th to 22nd in total yards, and 13th to 19th in total points. The Texans offensive line was particularly poor that season, and Slowik’s lack of variety in play calling (run on 1st down, run on 2nd down, pass on 3rd down) was criticized. Slowik and Stroud also did not see eye-to-eye, per many reports.

CJ Stroud & Bobby Slowik's relationship started with an altercation. Listen to ESPN 97.5 🎙️ Host Lance Zierlein's story ICYMI yesterday 👇 pic.twitter.com/tU2GcWELZp

— Robert Land | Houston Sports Talk Podcast Host (@HSTPodcast) January 28, 2025

As a result, Slowik was fired.

Slowik then joined the Dolphins in 2025, as the team’s senior passing game coordinator, working under offensive coordinator Frank Smith and head coach Mike McDaniel. Last season, the Dolphins ranked bottom-10 in the NFL for passing yards, passing touchdowns, and interceptions.

But, with McDaniel fired, and Smith soon to follow, the offensive coordinator job is now Slowik’s. Slowik will most definitely call the plays on offense, as head coach Jeff Hafley calls the plays on defense.

Source: https://www.thephinsider.com/general/114743/dolphins-promote-bobby-slowik-to-offensive-coordinator
 
NFL Conference Championship Games Live Discussion & Game Information: NE Patriots @ Denver Broncos/LA Rams @ Seattle Seahawks

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Please use this thread to follow this afternoon’s and evening’s NFL Conference Championship games and, as always, to discuss your Miami Dolphins. Please follow all site rules in the live threads and other posts on The Phinsider. Please note that SBNation strictly prohibits sharing illegal game streams. Sharing, discussing, or requesting illegal game streams may result in a temporary suspension from the site or a ban from the entire SBN platform.

We have everything you need to know to watch today’s game right here:

NE Patriots (14-3) AFC East @ Denver Broncos (14-3) AFC West​

  • Kickoff: 3:00 p.m. EST, Sunday, January 25th
  • Location: Empower Field at Mile High Stadium, Denver, Colorado
  • TV Broadcast: CBS
  • Streaming: Paramount+, NFL+
  • FANDUEL Sportsbook betting Odds: Spread: Patriots -3; Point total: 43.5; Moneyline: Patriots -200| Broncos +168

Join the conversation!​


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LA Rams (12-5) NFC West @ Seattle Seahawks (14-3) NFC West​

  • Kickoff: 6:30 p.m. EST, Sunday, January 25th
  • Location: Lumen Field, Seattle, Washington
  • TV Broadcast: FOX
  • Streaming: FOX One, Fox Sports, NFL+
  • FANDUEL Sportsbook betting Odds: Spread: Seahawks -2.5; Point total: 45.5; Moneyline: Seahawks -138| Rams +118

Source: https://www.thephinsider.com/miami-...riots-denver-broncos-la-rams-seattle-seahawks
 
Dolphins hire new wide receivers coach

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The Miami Dolphins continue a major overhaul to their staff following the hires of new general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan and new head coach Jeff Hafley — both formerly of the Green Bay Packers.

On Sunday, multiple reports indicated that the team had hired a new wide receivers coach — Tyke Tolbert. He replaces former receivers coach Robert Prince who recently interviewed with the New York Giants for their offensive coordinator position.

Tolbert comes to Miami from the Tennessee Titans where he held the same title. He will now work under Bobby Slowik who was recently promoted to offensive coordinator of the Dolphins.

Tolbert, 58 years old, brings 32 years of coaching experience to South Florida. He has worked for the Arizona Cardinals, Buffalo Bills, Carolina Panthers, Denver Broncos, New York Giants, Chicago Bears and the previously mentioned Titans.

Source: https://www.thephinsider.com/miami-dolphins-news/114788/dolphins-hire-new-wide-receivers-coach
 
Miami Dolphins hire Green Bay Packers defensive backs coach for same role

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With the Miami Dolphins hiring new wide receivers coach Tyke Tolbert from the Tennessee Titans this weekend, it was time for the defense to get in on the fun. On Monday, NFL insider Aaron Wilson reported that the team had hired Green Bay Packers defensive backs coach Ryan Downard — with a separate social media post confirming that Downard would coach Miami’s secondary as well.

Downard — 37 years old — comes to Miami after spending the past eight seasons with the Packers. He started as a defensive quality control coach, became the team’s assistant defensive backs coach, took on the role of safeties coach, before becoming the main defensive backs coach in 2023.

Prior to his time in Green Bay, Downard coached with the Cleveland Browns.

A former college player, Downard attended Eastern Michigan University. In his redshirt freshman year, he recorded six interceptions and was named as an honorable mention for the All-American team.

Source: https://www.thephinsider.com/miami-...y-packers-defensive-backs-coach-for-same-role
 
Miami Dolphins Fans Weigh In On The Teams 2026-2027 Starting Quarterback

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With the season ending and many believing that former starting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa will never again take a snap at QB for the Phins, I asked the following question:

What do you want to see your Miami Dolphins do this offseason to address the quarterback situation, be that a permanent answer or just for a guy to get the team by until the right guy comes along in the draft? AKA What would you do if you were the Miami Dolphins’ new General Manager?

Below are some of your answers and thoughts on the question of the day-

Brian C 47 thinks Quinn Ewers should be given a shot at winning the job.

I believe Quinn Ewers Should get a shot.\n How many first round quarterbacks would look that good on this team? And he did a very good job.

SuperG! just wants an honest and open competition that dones’t include Tua.

I have no idea. Other than saying Tua is not the future, I’m not sure if it will be a free agent (e.g. Malik Willis), Quinn Ewers, or a draft pick. After today’s presser, I’m expecting a draft pick somewhere but not sure what round. The only thing I want at QB is an honest and open competition and the best QB in camp to win the starting job.

Jptapt wants to let it ride with Ewers and see what we have at the end of the season.

As I said elsewhere, let Ewers start and give him the year to develop. At the end you have either:

1. Your starting QB

2. A seasoned backup

3. Trade bait

If he doesn’t work out, it means they’ll have a not-so-great record and a better 1st round draft pick, and a better QB class to choose from in 2027.

I would even entertain the idea of trading down on this year’s first round pick for picks in 2027-28. It helps the cap and gives you more ammo for getting a QB in 2027, if you need one.

JUK is in on Willis at the right price.

Projections for Malik Willis’ market are all over the place. I’ve seen everything from 8m a year to a 2/3 year deal for 45-50 according to orlovsky.

If it’s the latter there’s no chance but anything under 15m and I think we will be all over him

Alpha6 sees some moving parts to sift through.

What do you want to see your Miami Dolphins do this offseason to address the quarterback situation, be that a permanent answer or just for a guy to get the team by until the right guy comes along in the draft?

I see a trade.

I see a draft selection.

I see Ewers gettin a chance.

AKA What would you do if you were the Miami Dolphins’ new General Manager?

Just as described above.

There are no other avenues.

There’s only one FA, & he ain’t the answer.

If Malik comes on a one yr reasonable contract, then give him a chance also.

MiamiItaliano doesn’t see the money to do much in free agency this season, QB-wise.

It’s looking more like Tua will be gone and the trade market is very low for him, if non-existent. Trading him is around a $45 million dead cap hit. Cutting him post June 1st is $67 million. Add Tyreek’s post June 1st cut and that’s another $15 or $16 million. That’s not including the existing $35.5 million dead cap from previous moves. A possible total of a crippling $118 million dead cap.

So, there is no money for a good free agent QB. They would be lucky to acquire an adequate backup to Ewers. Also, they’ll probably draft a QB in round four or later since Fernando Mendoza and Ty Simpson will be gone quick in round one.

cyberflea says sign Willis if you can, and then wait to see who they draft.

As it is now, Ewers will likely be the starter next season. The beginning of the end of Tua’s career was when he got benched and now with a new GM and HC the fat lady is done singing. Even Tua knows his career in Miami is over as he has sold his home in Davie.

The million-dollar question is how the Dolphins are going to get him off the books. I would not trade for him if I was a GM and his salary makes it even more difficult unless Tua takes a pay cut. Not only do the Dolphins know that he is not a franchise QB, but other teams do as well. A stop gap or backup at best.

Zach Wilson is a gonner as well and will not be resigned. He is what he is, a first round bust that can’t even be counted on as a backup.

Sully has already confirmed that he will not build the team with a bunch of free agent mercenaries, however QB is the most important position in all of sports. This is where rumors of the Dolphins signing Malik Willis comes in.

A lot of folks on here are not thrilled about Willis, however the Dolphins should absolutely try and sign Willis if he is affordable although there will be a bidding war for his services. He is still in his prime at 26, played very well filling in for Love and showcased that he has possible big upside.

Willis is a dual threat with good arm strength, and the Dolphins can win with him behind center. Willis would be an upgrade, and defenses would have to game plan against his mobility giving the Dolphins offense another aspect for opponents to be concerned about. A poor man’s Lamar Jackson.

Here are his stats in limited starts the last two seasons with the Packers. One of the more important stats is zero interceptions.

2024 Stats:

550 Yds Passing, 74.1 Comp%, 3 TDs 0 INTs, 77.3 QB rating

138 Yds Rushing, 4.6 Yd Avg, 1 Rushing TDs

2025 Stats:

422 Yds Passing, 85.7 Comp%, 3 TDs 0 INTs, 93.1 QB rating

123 Yds Rushing, 5.6 Yd Avg, 2 Rushing TDs

Lastly per Sully’s press conference, you can probably bank on that he will draft a QB in this year’s draft and in drafts going forward even if the team somehow signs Willis.

USMCFinzFreak says, “Why not!”

The team will suck next season, so why not roll with Ewers to see what you got? The worst thing that can happen is they end up with the first pick of the 2027 draft.

Mrmondaynight has an entire plan laid out.

Grab Willis at a reasonable cost with a contractual out for next season or the season after. Draft BPA then NEED. Trade down if possible if your guy isn’t there at 11. Wait till the next draft class. 2027. Trade Tua if possible. Eat some cost if you must. Keep ewers as qb 2. Allow him to compete for qb1 regardless of who you bring in as qb1. Draft a qb late this draft to have as qb3 . by the time 2027 draft class rolls around either keep Willis or draft a qb.fresh books no tua can get rid of Willis if the experiment didnt work out.

Well, that’s our random ten comments for this evening. It seems there is a consensus to either allow Ewers to compete for the gig or go out and get Willis to see what he has as a full-time starter. I guess none of us know what direction this new front office will ultimately lean. Thank you, as always, to those of you who join us most every evening to read and answer our question of the day.

Source: https://www.thephinsider.com/miami-...n-on-the-teams-2026-2027-starting-quarterback
 
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