Dolphins Hire Packers’ Jeff Hafley as Head Coach Post-McDaniel Firing

The Miami Dolphins have made a significant change in leadership by hiring Jeff Hafley as their head coach following the recent dismissal of Mike McDaniel. This transition comes after a challenging 2025 NFL season, where the Dolphins fell short of their expectations.

Background on Jeff Hafley

Jeff Hafley comes to Miami after serving as the defensive coordinator for the Green Bay Packers. Prior to that, he was the head coach at Boston College from 2020 to 2023, where he achieved a 22-26 record. During his tenure, Hafley led the Eagles to a Fenway Bowl victory in 2023.

Coaching Experience

• Boston College (2020-2023): 22 wins, 26 losses, one bowl victory.
• Green Bay Packers (Defensive Coordinator): Developed a top-10 defense over two seasons.

This hiring aligns with the Dolphins’ strategy under new general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan, who previously held various roles with the Packers since 2003. Sullivan’s vision for the team is expected to complement Hafley’s leadership style.

Shifts in Personnel

Mike McDaniel’s firing was not entirely unexpected. He finished his tenure with a record of 35-33 and was unable to clinch a playoff win. Notably, quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s performance declined significantly after a promising Pro Bowl season in 2023, raising concerns about his ability to lead.

Player Performance and Contracts

• Tua Tagovailoa: Averaged 7.1 yards per attempt, with 39 touchdowns to 22 interceptions from 2024 to 2025.
• Tyreek Hill: His production decreased in 2024 and he suffered a dislocated knee in 2025.

Both Tagovailoa and Hill face uncertain futures with the team, particularly given the Dolphins’ projected salary cap overage of $8.4 million. The team must address these financial concerns while reshaping the roster.

Future Outlook

The Dolphins appear to be at a crossroads. Bringing Hafley on board signals a desire for change, but it may take time for the team to reach its potential. The focus will be on rebuilding confidence in key players like Tagovailoa and reestablishing a competitive atmosphere.

Overall, Hafley’s hiring indicates a commitment to re-evaluating the Dolphins’ direction. As the organization prepares for a new chapter, how they manage their roster and resources will be critical for their success moving forward.