The Miami Dolphins have taken a decisive step in reshaping their leadership structure, tapping into the Green Bay Packers’ pipeline by hiring former defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley as their new head coach. He joins forces with newly appointed general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan, also from Green Bay, as the franchise pivots toward a fresh era. With the top two seats now filled, the Dolphins are turning their attention to building out the rest of the coaching staff - and their next big move could come on the offensive side of the ball.
According to reports on Thursday morning, Miami has formally requested to interview Houston Texans quarterbacks coach Jerrod Johnson for their vacant offensive coordinator role. It’s a name that’s been generating buzz in coaching circles - and for good reason.
Johnson’s path to this moment is one of persistence and development. A former undrafted quarterback out of Texas A&M, he spent six seasons in the NFL before shifting gears into coaching in 2017, beginning with a stint on the San Francisco 49ers’ staff.
From there, he gained valuable experience with the Colts and Vikings, carving out a reputation as a rising offensive mind. But it was in Houston where Johnson truly made his mark.
In 2023, Johnson took over as quarterbacks coach for the Texans and immediately helped guide rookie C.J. Stroud to a breakout campaign that ended with Rookie of the Year honors.
Stroud’s poise, decision-making, and rapid adjustment to the pro game didn’t happen in a vacuum - and Johnson’s fingerprints were all over that development. His work in Houston has made him one of the more intriguing young coaches in the league, especially for teams looking to spark growth at the quarterback position.
That’s exactly where the Dolphins may be headed. While nothing is set in stone, there’s been plenty of speculation about the future of Tua Tagovailoa in Miami.
If the team decides to move on from the former first-round pick, the quarterback room could be in for a shakeup. That would put even more importance on whoever takes over the offensive coordinator role - particularly if 2025 seventh-round pick Quinn Ewers isn’t viewed as the long-term answer.
For Johnson, the opportunity in Miami would be a big step - his first shot at calling plays and shaping an offense from the top. But given his track record with young quarterbacks and his steady rise through the coaching ranks, it’s easy to see why the Dolphins are interested.
This is a team in transition, looking to blend defensive toughness with offensive innovation. And if Johnson gets the nod, he’ll be tasked with molding an offense that can match the vision Hafley and Sullivan are putting in place.
There’s still plenty to be sorted out in Miami, but one thing’s clear: the Dolphins are moving with purpose. And Jerrod Johnson could be a key piece in what they’re building.