Dolphins’ New GM Jon-Eric Sullivan Sets the Tone: Speed, Power, and Building from the Trenches
Jon-Eric Sullivan isn’t wasting any time laying out his vision for the Miami Dolphins. In his first public comments since being named general manager, Sullivan made it clear: this team isn’t going to compromise its identity just to fit the mold of the AFC East’s cold-weather grind. Instead, he’s doubling down on what Miami does best-speed, explosiveness-and pairing that with a renewed focus on physicality in the trenches.
“Our division runs through Buffalo, New England, and New York-cold-weather places,” Sullivan said. “There’s a saying in our business: fast gets slow, but big doesn’t get small.”
That quote says a lot about how Sullivan views roster construction. He’s not looking to load up on size just for the sake of matching the physicality of AFC East rivals.
Instead, he wants a roster that can win with both finesse and force. That means keeping the Dolphins’ trademark speed at the skill positions-receiver, cornerback, running back-while also adding real substance up front.
“We’re not going to sacrifice speed and explosion and skill for a bunch of big stiff guys,” Sullivan emphasized. “But we’re going to have substance to us at all levels of our team.
It starts with the quarterback, and then we’ll build this team from the inside out. We’ve got to be dominant on the offensive line, dominant on the defensive line.”
That inside-out philosophy aligns with what we’ve seen from successful teams across the league. It’s not just about having a flashy quarterback or elite weapons-contenders are built in the trenches. Sullivan seems intent on making sure Miami isn’t just fast, but also tough, resilient, and capable of winning when the weather turns and the game slows down.
As for the Dolphins’ new head coach, Jeff Hafley, the hire wasn’t just about scheme or pedigree. According to reports, Miami prioritized finding someone who could work in lockstep with Sullivan and Brandon Shore, the team’s senior VP of football and business administration. It’s a collaborative model that emphasizes alignment between the front office and coaching staff-something that’s become increasingly important in today’s NFL.
And while the Dolphins continue to finalize their coaching staff, one name to keep an eye on for offensive coordinator is Brian Angelichio, currently serving as the Vikings’ passing game coordinator. His background in tight end development and experience with multiple offensive systems could make him an intriguing fit, especially for a team that values versatility and creativity on offense.
Patriots Lean on Identity, Not Hype, Ahead of AFC Title Game
A year ago, the Patriots were sitting at 4-13, dead last in the AFC East. Now, they’re one win away from the Super Bowl. But don’t expect anyone in that locker room to be talking about redemption arcs or underdog narratives.
“We’re not trying to prove anybody wrong or anybody right,” said rookie quarterback Drake Maye. “When we’re in games, we’re playing good defense, trying to show good teams that we can play with them. I think we’ve done that all year.”
Maye’s calm, measured approach has become a defining trait of this Patriots team. There’s no bravado, no chest-puffing-just a group that believes in its process. And while critics have pointed to New England’s relatively soft schedule, the players aren’t buying into any outside noise.
“I don’t think we buy into what everyone else says,” said veteran wideout Stefon Diggs. “Everybody that comes into work each and every day here ain’t over here saying we got a Cinderella story. Like, nah, we come in and work hard, we do what we are supposed to-and we try our best on Sundays.”
That blue-collar mentality has served New England well, especially in the postseason. Running back Rhamondre Stevenson spoke about the team’s preparation for Houston’s defense, which came into the Divisional Round ranked near the top in multiple categories.
“We know what the Texans’ defense brought and what they were going to bring throughout the week-great defense,” Stevenson said. “But we knew we’re good, too.
Our offense is good, too. We know how to get the ball rolling good up front.
We’re disciplined. So, no Cinderella stories around here.”
Still, it hasn’t been a perfect ride. Maye has had issues with ball security-three lost fumbles and three more recovered in the playoffs alone. It’s something he’s aware of and working to fix.
“I’ve got to do a better job stepping up and hitting guys downfield when we have chances,” Maye admitted. “I have to be better with the football when I’m taking off and running. From there, just know the football is the prized possession.”
The rookie’s self-awareness is part of what’s made this Patriots team so compelling. They’re not flashy, but they’re fundamentally sound.
They don’t talk much, but they execute. And now, just a season removed from rock bottom, they’re 60 minutes from the Super Bowl.
No fairy tales. Just football.