The Dolphins’ offseason search for a new general manager and head coach took an unusual turn when Troy Aikman stepped in to help guide it, but that arrangement has now run its course.
Miami went outside the organization for the first time since Stephen Ross leaned on Carl Peterson more than a decade ago, and at the urging of Ross’ son-in-law, Danny Sillman, the team brought in the Super Bowl-winning quarterback and Hall of Famer to aid the process. Aikman’s familiarity with how NFL front offices operate helped introduce new names into the mix, with the search ultimately leading Miami to the Packers’ Jon-Eric Sullivan for GM and then to Jeff Hafley as head coach.
The Dolphins’ last outside hire at general manager came when they brought in Dennis Hickey, who was later replaced by Chris Grier.
Aikman was widely expected to remain involved in some kind of consultant role after the hires were made, but that is no longer the case. According to Front Office Sports, he is no longer under a "formal and ongoing agreement" with the Dolphins. That means he is free to look elsewhere, though it would not prevent him from lending a hand if Miami reaches out again.
The former Cowboys star has also been in the spotlight for another reason recently. A disagreement with Monday Night Football partner Joe Buck sparked speculation that Aikman might not be back next season, but that has since been clarified as inaccurate. Buck will remain under a new contract, and Aikman could end up with other opportunities, including a front office role.
Around the league, Aikman still carries plenty of respect, so it would not be a surprise if other teams try to bring him in once the season ends.
For Miami, the bigger question is whether Sullivan and Hafley can help turn things around. If they do, Aikman’s fingerprints will stay on an organization trying to escape a long run of misses in its coaching and GM searches since Ross took over.
Right now, though, the Dolphins have plenty of ground to make up. They are on their bye week, sit with the third-hardest remaining schedule in the NFL beyond Week 6, and have not won a game or even held a lead at any point in five weeks.
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For Houston, the bigger takeaway is that the leagues newest threat is not looking like a one-game wonder. Texas Tech has also flashed more consistent offense, while teams such as Oklahoma State, Baylor and Arizona State have been forced to fight through defensive issues and recent losses that are beginning to matter in the standings. If the Cougars are going to stay in the hunt, they will need to keep matching that level of production as the schedule tightens. [Read more 🡒]