Ladell Betts Joins Dolphins as RB Coach, Set to Lead One of NFL’s Most Explosive Backfields
Ladell Betts is heading back to warmer weather-and into one of the most intriguing offensive situations in the NFL.
After just one season with the New York Giants, the former Iowa running backs coach is taking his talents to South Beach, where he’ll join new head coach Jeff Hafley’s staff as the Miami Dolphins’ running backs coach. It’s a big move for a coach who’s quietly built a strong résumé, and now he’s stepping into a backfield loaded with talent and expectations.
From Iowa City to the NFL Fast Track
Betts’ coaching journey has been a steady climb. After years as a high school coach, he joined the Iowa staff in 2021 and quickly became a key figure in the Hawkeyes’ offensive identity.
His fingerprints were all over the development of standout backs like Tyler Goodson, Kaleb Johnson, and Kamari Moulton. Iowa’s run game didn’t just function under Betts-it thrived.
That success led him to the NFL, where he spent the 2025 season coaching running backs for the Giants. And while New York had its share of struggles, Betts’ unit was a bright spot.
The Giants finished fifth in the league in total rushing yards (2,195), averaging 129.1 yards per game on the ground and 4.3 yards per carry. Those are strong numbers for any team-but especially impressive given the Giants’ offensive line inconsistencies and overall injury issues.
Betts worked with a backfield that included former Hawkeye Tyrone Tracy Jr. and Arizona State product Cam Skattebo, helping both find their footing at the pro level. His ability to connect with players and maximize their strengths didn’t go unnoticed-and now he’s getting a shot with one of the most explosive offensive teams in the league.
A Backfield Built for Speed and Versatility
In Miami, Betts inherits a running back room that’s as deep as it is dynamic. Devon Achane has already proven to be one of the league’s most electric playmakers, and now he’s joined by rookies Jaylen Wright and Ollie Gordon II, along with former Michigan standout Donovan Edwards. That’s a group with speed, power, and versatility-traits that fit perfectly into Mike McDaniel’s wide-zone-heavy scheme, which Hafley is expected to retain elements of.
While Hafley comes from a defensive background, his time in Green Bay showed he understands the importance of a balanced offense. Betts will be tasked with keeping the Dolphins’ ground game humming-and possibly elevating it to new heights. With this much talent in the room, the opportunity is there to create something special.
A Smart Hire for a Team on the Rise
Miami’s coaching staff is undergoing a major overhaul, and Betts is one of several fresh faces brought in to reshape the team’s identity. Hafley’s rise through the NFL ranks has been rapid, and adding a coach like Betts-who’s shown he can develop talent and produce results-signals that the Dolphins are serious about building a sustainable contender.
For Betts, this is more than just a new job. It’s a chance to prove he belongs among the NFL’s top position coaches. And if his track record is any indication, he’s ready for the challenge.
From Iowa City to New York and now Miami, Ladell Betts’ coaching journey continues to gain momentum. And with the keys to one of the most exciting backfields in football, he’s got a real shot to make a major impact in 2026.