It didn’t take long-just 30 seconds, maybe-for Packers fans to recognize exactly what Dolphins fans are getting in Jeff Hafley. The new Miami head coach didn’t come in with the star power of a Harbaugh or a Saleh, but what he brought to the podium in his opening press conference was something far more telling: authenticity, conviction, and a clear vision for what’s next.
Hafley’s first public comments as the Dolphins’ head coach struck all the right chords. He spoke with emotion, clarity, and purpose-qualities that quickly won over a fanbase that wasn’t quite sure what to expect. And in true Hafley fashion, he didn’t forget where he came from.
“I want to thank Matt LaFleur and the Green Bay Packers,” Hafley said, visibly moved. “The last two years have been two of the best of my life. He’s a great football coach, he’s a great friend, and he’s going to have continued great success.”
That wasn’t just a throwaway line. Hafley went deeper, speaking directly to the players he coached in Green Bay-players he clearly built something special with.
“I also want to thank those players there. In two years, we got real close.
I mean really close. The love, the connection, the support.
It was hard to say goodbye to those guys, but the phone calls and the texts to you guys meant everything to me. I love ya, I wish you the best-other than when we come to Lambeau next year.”
That last line? Pure Hafley.
Honest, heartfelt, and with just the right amount of competitive fire. And yes, the Dolphins will be heading to Lambeau next season, a matchup that now comes with a little extra juice.
But beyond the emotion, Hafley laid out a clear identity for what he wants this Dolphins team to become. He confirmed he’ll be calling defensive plays himself-a move that signals confidence in his scheme and a hands-on approach.
On offense, he emphasized physicality at the line of scrimmage and a commitment to the run game. That’s not just coach-speak.
It’s a blueprint for building a team that can win in December and January-especially in places like Lambeau.
For Miami fans still adjusting to the idea of Hafley as the guy, this press conference likely helped ease any lingering doubts. He came across as someone who knows who he is, knows what he wants to build, and knows how to connect with players and fans alike.
Hafley wasn’t the only one making a strong first impression. New Dolphins GM Jon-Eric Sullivan also spoke with confidence and vision. Together, the two bring a fresh direction to Miami-and leave a noticeable void in Green Bay.
Back in Titletown, Matt LaFleur is already deep into the search for Hafley’s replacement. The process is moving quickly.
Among the early names: Al Harris, the Bears’ defensive backs coach and pass game coordinator-and a former Packers Pro Bowler. Other candidates reportedly in the mix include former Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon, Eagles pass game coordinator Christian Parker, and Vikings pass game coordinator Daronte Jones.
And the list is expected to grow. Seattle’s defensive coordinator Aden Durde and Broncos defensive backs coach Jim Leonhard are also drawing interest, though league rules will keep the Packers from reaching out until after this weekend’s playoff games.
For now, Green Bay is focused on finding the right voice to lead its defense into the next chapter. But in Miami, the Hafley era is already off to a promising start-one built on relationships, toughness, and a clear-eyed vision for what winning football looks like.