Jon-Eric Sullivan Brings a Familiar Blueprint to Miami - But Don’t Expect a Packers South Just Yet
Jon-Eric Sullivan is officially at the helm in Miami, and while he’s still getting acclimated to the Dolphins’ roster, one thing is already clear: he’s bringing a deliberate, values-driven approach to team-building. The longtime Packers executive isn’t rushing into splashy moves or headline-grabbing signings. Instead, he’s focused on constructing a roster that reflects a shared commitment to winning - and that means leaning on what (and who) he knows.
Sullivan’s background in Green Bay gives him a deep familiarity with the NFC North - particularly the Packers - and that knowledge is going to shape how he evaluates talent in his new role. But don’t confuse familiarity with favoritism.
Sullivan isn’t just looking to recreate the Packers in South Florida. He’s looking for players who fit Miami’s evolving identity, both on and off the field.
“We will be intentional and deliberate in how we go about it in free agency because that can be dangerous waters if you don’t go about it in the right way.... I believe in free agency, you chase difference makers,” Sullivan said in a recent sit-down with the team.
That’s a telling quote. Sullivan isn’t anti-free agency, but he’s not about to chase names for the sake of headlines.
He’s looking for impact players - the kind who can shift the dynamic of a locker room and a game plan. That said, don’t be surprised if some familiar faces from Green Bay pop up on Miami’s radar.
Familiar Faces, Familiar Fits?
There are 18 Packers set to hit free agency this offseason, though only nine are unrestricted. That narrows the pool, but it still leaves a few intriguing options - especially for a GM who knows the ins and outs of that roster better than anyone outside of Wisconsin.
Malik Willis is one name to watch. The quarterback didn’t get a ton of starts in Green Bay, but when he did play, he showed flashes of poise and playmaking ability.
Miami’s quarterback situation isn’t exactly settled, and Sullivan’s familiarity with Willis could make him a consideration as a depth piece or developmental option. He’s not a long-term solution, but he could be a bridge or a backup with upside - and that matters in today’s NFL.
Then there’s Romeo Doubs, a wide receiver who has made some noise both on the field and off it. After the season, Doubs took a page from Tyreek Hill’s playbook, posting cryptic messages on social media that hinted at a potential departure from Green Bay.
His connection to Sullivan makes him a logical name to float, but there’s a catch: money. Doubs will likely command a sizable contract, and the Dolphins aren’t exactly flush with cap space.
Unless the financials line up just right, this one feels more like a long shot than a sure thing.
Quay Walker is another name that’s surfaced in the rumor mill. The former first-round pick has been a steady presence at linebacker since entering the league in 2022.
He brings athleticism and experience, but Miami isn’t hurting for help at inside linebacker. And like Doubs, Walker is expected to command a hefty contract - something that could make him a luxury the Dolphins can’t afford.
Building With Purpose
What’s striking about Sullivan’s approach so far is how measured it is. He’s not chasing familiarity for comfort’s sake.
He’s looking for players who align with a broader vision - one centered on culture, accountability, and sustainable success. That means every roster decision, from free agency to the draft, will be filtered through a lens of fit and function.
Yes, there may be a few Packers who find their way to Miami. But this isn’t about turning the Dolphins into a carbon copy of Green Bay. It’s about leveraging past experience to build something new - and potentially better - in South Florida.
So while the connections to Green Bay will naturally fuel speculation, Dolphins fans should expect a more nuanced approach. Sullivan isn’t here to play favorites.
He’s here to build a winner. And if that means bringing in a few familiar faces along the way, so be it - as long as they’re the right ones.