Dolphins’ Owner Stephen Ross Forgets Name of Head Coach
Stephen Ross, the owner of the Miami Dolphins, made headlines during the introductory press conference for new head coach Jeff Hafley. The 85-year-old entrepreneur appeared to momentarily forget Hafley’s name. This incident took place on January 22, 2026, and raised eyebrows about Ross’s involvement in the hiring process.
Jeff Hafley Takes the Helm
During the press conference, Ross praised Hafley, stating, “Jeff stood out amongst them all.” He expressed optimism about the decision to hire Hafley early, emphasizing the coach’s enthusiasm and background. However, Ross stumbled over Hafley’s name, pausing for six seconds before recalling it.
A Closer Look at Stephen Ross
Stephen Ross purchased the Miami Dolphins for $1.1 billion in 2008. Since then, he has been criticized for his management style. Despite increasing the franchise’s financial value, the team has not won a playoff game during his ownership.
- Age: 85 years
- Franchise Purchase Price: $1.1 billion (2008)
- Playoff Game Record: Zero wins during his tenure
Controversies Surrounding Ross
Ross has faced scrutiny for his conduct, including penalties for tampering with players Tom Brady and Sean Payton in 2022. This situation arose after former Dolphins head coach Brian Flores filed a lawsuit alleging racial discrimination within the NFL.
Hafley’s Potential Impact
Jeff Hafley’s success as the head coach could alleviate some of the negative perceptions surrounding Ross. If Hafley delivers favorable results on the field, it may overshadow concerns about Ross’s ownership. Additionally, with Troy Aikman’s involvement in hiring new general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan and Hafley, there may be hope for a turnaround for the franchise.
