Dolphins Hire Packers Coordinator Jeff Hafley as New Head Coach

Hafley's defensive expertise and ties to GM Jon-Eric Sullivan seen as key factors in Miami's decision.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 6:11am

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A fractured, geometric painting in vibrant teal, orange, and navy blue hues, depicting a football game or match broken down into sharp, overlapping planes, conceptually representing the Dolphins' new defensive-focused approach under head coach Jeff Hafley.A cubist interpretation of the Dolphins' new era, with their defensive-minded head coach Jeff Hafley leading the charge.Today in Miami

The Miami Dolphins have reportedly hired Jeff Hafley, the current defensive coordinator for the Green Bay Packers, as their new head coach. This move comes after the team parted ways with both their general manager and previous head coach following a disappointing season. Hafley's defensive prowess and his existing relationship with Dolphins GM Jon-Eric Sullivan are seen as key factors behind this decision, though it marks a shift from the Dolphins' recent preference for offensive-minded coaches.

Why it matters

The Dolphins' hiring of Hafley represents a significant change in the team's coaching philosophy, as they have primarily hired offensive-minded coaches since 2007. Hafley's defensive expertise could bring a new strategic approach, but he will also need to navigate the quarterback situation with Tua Tagovailoa and lead the team back to the playoffs, which they haven't reached since 2023.

The details

Hafley, who has previous head coaching experience at Boston College, is set to become the 12th full-time head coach in Dolphins history. His defense in Green Bay ranked 11th overall, 9th against the run, and 11th against the pass. The connection between Hafley and new Dolphins GM Jon-Eric Sullivan, who previously worked together with the Packers, is seen as a key factor in this hiring decision. Hafley also has ties to the 49ers and Kyle Shanahan, mirroring the path of the Dolphins' previous head coach, Mike McDaniel.

  • The Dolphins recently parted ways with both their general manager, Chris Grier, and head coach Mike McDaniel, following a disappointing 2025 season.
  • The Dolphins' search for a new general manager included the involvement of NFL legend Troy Aikman, which led to the hiring of Jon-Eric Sullivan, formerly of the Packers.

The players

Jeff Hafley

The current defensive coordinator for the Green Bay Packers, who is set to become the 12th full-time head coach of the Miami Dolphins.

Jon-Eric Sullivan

The new general manager of the Miami Dolphins, who previously worked with Jeff Hafley during their time with the Green Bay Packers.

Tua Tagovailoa

The current starting quarterback for the Miami Dolphins, whose recent performance has been underwhelming, leading to him being benched late in the 2025 season.

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What they’re saying

“We must make the best decision for the future of this franchise, and Jeff Hafley's defensive expertise and his relationship with Jon-Eric Sullivan made him the clear choice.”

— Stephen Ross, Owner, Miami Dolphins

What’s next

The Dolphins' new head coach, Jeff Hafley, will need to quickly address the team's quarterback situation and work to lead the team back to the playoffs, a feat they haven't achieved since 2023.

The takeaway

The Dolphins' hiring of Jeff Hafley as their new head coach represents a significant shift in the team's coaching philosophy, as they move away from their recent preference for offensive-minded coaches. Hafley's defensive expertise and his existing relationship with the new general manager, Jon-Eric Sullivan, are seen as key factors in this decision, but he will face the challenge of navigating the team's quarterback situation and leading the Dolphins back to the postseason.