In a significant shift within the NFL coaching landscape, former Green Bay Packers officials Jeff Hafley and Jon-Eric Sullivan have joined the Miami Dolphins, marking a fresh chapter for both. During a press conference held on January 22, Hafley was introduced as the new head coach while Sullivan took on the role of general manager, both expressing high hopes for their future in South Beach.
Sullivan, who previously served as the Packers’ vice president of player personnel for four years, was appointed as the Dolphins’ general manager on January 9. His immediate task involved searching for a head coach following the dismissal of Mike McDaniel. In a decision that surprised many, Sullivan did not need to look far; Hafley, who previously led the Packers’ defense for two seasons after a successful stint at Boston College, emerged as the clear candidate.
“I came into this with a lot of conviction about the guy I was working with in Green Bay,” Sullivan stated about Hafley’s appointment. He characterized Hafley as a “slam dunk” candidate, noting that even in depth interviews with other candidates, the conviction of bringing Hafley on board was strong among the Dolphins’ leadership team.
Although Hafley is stepping into the head coaching role for the first time in the NFL, Sullivan emphasized that a lack of previous head coaching experience was not a detriment in their assessment. He praised Hafley’s capabilities and the connections he made in Green Bay, where players expressed their support, illustrating Hafley’s positive impact in a short time.
Hafley reflected on his tenure at the Packers, thanking head coach Matt LaFleur and the organization, highlighting that the last two years were some of the best of his life. As he transitions into his new role, he will also take on the responsibility of calling defensive plays on game days, showcasing his intent to bring his defensive strategies to Miami.
Among the key challenges facing the new regime will be handling the quarterback position. Tua Tagovailoa, who has led the Dolphins since his rookie season, finds his status uncertain moving into the 2026 season. Sullivan pointedly emphasized the importance of continuously developing quarterback talent, echoing strategies learned during his time in Green Bay where they successfully navigated quarterback transitions. He indicated that they would not hesitate to draft quarterbacks regularly, as historical practices have shown the benefit of maintaining depth in that critical position.
With both Hafley and Sullivan leading the charge, fans can anticipate a renewed focus on building a competitive Dolphins team. Their previous successes and experiences within a storied franchise like the Packers could serve as a blueprint for navigating the challenges ahead in Miami. The excitement surrounding their arrival, coupled with their commitment to strategic player development, sets a hopeful tone for the Dolphins’ future.