Jeff Hafley’s name is suddenly dominating the NFL coaching carousel - and for good reason. The 46-year-old Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator is reportedly emerging as the surprise frontrunner for the Miami Dolphins’ head coaching job, a development that’s turning heads across the league.
Hafley is drawing serious interest from multiple teams - four are said to be lining up second interviews - but it’s Miami that appears to be making the strongest push. According to reports, the Dolphins are zeroing in on Hafley, and there’s a key reason why: his prior connection with new general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan. The two worked together in Green Bay, and that existing rapport could give Hafley a significant edge in what’s becoming a competitive hiring race.
The Dolphins are coming off a disappointing 7-10 season that ended without a playoff berth, prompting owner Stephen Ross to part ways with Mike McDaniel. It’s a tough fall for McDaniel, who once looked like the long-term answer in Miami. But after another year of inconsistency and underachievement, the franchise is looking for a new voice - and Hafley’s defensive pedigree might be just what they need.
He just wrapped up his second season running the Packers’ defense, a unit that showed flashes of promise but ultimately fell short in the postseason, losing to the Bears in the opening round. Still, Hafley’s reputation around the league is on the rise. He’s known for his aggressive, modern defensive schemes and his ability to connect with players - traits that have made him one of the more sought-after names in this year’s coaching cycle.
Before his time in Green Bay, Hafley built an impressive resume that includes stops with the Buccaneers, Browns, and 49ers at the NFL level, as well as stints at Ohio State and Boston College in the college ranks. That blend of pro and collegiate experience gives him a well-rounded perspective - and likely adds to his appeal for a team like Miami that’s looking for a culture reset.
The Dolphins aren’t the only ones hunting for a new head coach. There are still eight vacancies across the league, including notable openings in Baltimore, Pittsburgh, and Arizona. But one domino has already fallen: the New York Giants have officially landed their man, signing former Ravens head coach John Harbaugh to a five-year deal reportedly worth around $100 million, depending on team success.
Harbaugh, 63, brings a championship pedigree to the Giants and didn’t hide his enthusiasm about the opportunity. “This is the New York Giants,” he told ESPN. “I’m proud and honored to be the head coach of this historic franchise… but most of all, I can’t wait to get started with the great players on this football team to see what we can accomplish together.”
As for Hafley, his next move could come soon. If the Dolphins believe he’s the right leader to turn things around in Miami, and if that Green Bay connection with Sullivan proves decisive, we could be looking at the next head coach in South Florida. Stay tuned - this coaching cycle is just heating up.