The Miami Dolphins’ head coaching search is entering a critical stretch - and the clock is ticking. Nearly two weeks after parting ways with Mike McDaniel, the Dolphins still haven’t named a successor, and the longer the process drags on, the more questions it raises about the direction of the franchise.
At this point, all signs are pointing toward one name: Jeff Hafley.
Hafley Rising
Hafley, currently the defensive coordinator for the Green Bay Packers, has emerged as the frontrunner in Miami’s search. His ties to recently hired Dolphins executive Jon-Eric Sullivan - a longtime Packers personnel man - have pushed Hafley to the top of the list. And with Matt LaFleur staying put in Green Bay, Hafley remains the most accessible candidate with Packers pedigree.
He’s scheduled to meet with the Dolphins in person on Monday, and then heads to Tennessee on Tuesday to sit down with the Titans. Much like what happened with Kevin Stefanski and the Falcons - who locked him down after just one meeting - this could move quickly. If Miami likes what they hear, they’ll need to act fast.
There’s no guarantee Hafley walks out of that meeting with a deal, but the Dolphins can’t afford to let him walk out without one either. He’s the only candidate currently lined up for a second interview, and with other teams circling, the window to make a move is narrowing.
The Waiting Game
Part of the delay in Miami’s process is due to NFL rules that restrict in-person interviews with coaches still under contract until January 19. That’s slowed things down across the league, but it also highlights a familiar issue in Miami: a lack of a clear plan.
The Dolphins didn’t enter this hiring cycle with a surefire target. And now, with big names like Stefanski and Jim Harbaugh off the board, the urgency is mounting - especially among fans who expected swift, decisive action after McDaniel’s exit.
Who Else Is in the Mix?
While Hafley is the name with the most traction, he’s far from the only candidate Miami has explored.
Chris Shula, currently with the Rams, had a virtual interview last week. Miami would like to bring him in for an in-person meeting, but that depends on how the Rams fare in their playoff matchup against the Bears. Shula has drawn interest around the league, but so far, Miami hasn’t shown the same level of urgency with him as they have with Hafley.
Robert Saleh is another intriguing name. The former Jets head coach and longtime friend of McDaniel saw his 49ers defense give up 41 points in a playoff loss to Seattle.
That performance won’t help his case, but he’s one of the few candidates with prior head coaching experience. While he’s been linked to a potential second interview, Miami hasn’t made any firm moves yet.
That could change now that he’s available.
Joe Brady, the Bills’ offensive coordinator, is also on the radar. Miami had requested an interview before Buffalo’s playoff exit, and now that the Bills are out, the Dolphins could revisit the idea. Brady is expected to get more looks around the league, but it’s unclear if the timing aligns with Miami’s current sense of urgency.
Jesse Minter, the Chargers’ defensive coordinator, has already had a virtual sit-down with the Dolphins. There’s been talk of a second interview, but nothing is scheduled yet.
Klint Kubiak, Seattle’s offensive coordinator, made a strong impression in his virtual interview. But with the Seahawks advancing in the playoffs, Miami would have to wait until the bye week before the Super Bowl to meet him in person. That kind of delay may not sit well with owner Stephen Ross, who’s not known for his patience.
Other Names on the Radar
The Dolphins have also requested interviews with a few familiar faces, including former linebackers coach Anthony Campanile and former defensive coordinator Patrick Graham, though no interview dates have been set.
Where It Stands
Right now, the Dolphins appear to be all-in on Hafley. No other in-person interviews are scheduled for next week, and if Miami wants to avoid missing out on their top target, they’ll need to make Monday’s meeting count.
If Hafley walks out of that room without a deal, the entire search could shift. But if things go well - and the Dolphins can close - they may finally have their next head coach lined up.
The pressure is on. Miami can’t afford to miss again.