Dolphins Seek Harbaugh, Kubiak, Saleh, Shula After GM Appointment

Following the recent appointment of a general manager, the Miami Dolphins are intensifying their search for a new head coach. The franchise expressed interest in several coaching candidates, including former Ravens coach John Harbaugh, after parting ways with Mike McDaniel.

Dolphins’ Coaching Search Heats Up

Owner Stephen Ross and newly appointed general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan are eager to identify a suitable head coach. The Dolphins have requested interviews with notable candidates, including:

• John Harbaugh
• Klint Kubiak (Seattle Seahawks Offensive Coordinator)
• Robert Saleh (San Francisco 49ers Defensive Coordinator)
• Chris Shula (Los Angeles Rams Defensive Coordinator)
• Kevin Stefanski (former Cleveland Browns Coach)

Profile of Head Coach Candidates

Each candidate brings a unique background and experience:

• John Harbaugh: Recently fired by the Ravens after 18 seasons, he is a Super Bowl-winning coach with a record of 193-124. His tenure included six AFC North titles.
• Klint Kubiak: At 38 years old, Kubiak has generated significant interest due to his offensive mind, overseeing a Seahawks offense that ranked third in the league this past season.
• Robert Saleh: A respected defensive coach, Saleh has a history of leading productive defenses but was let go by the Jets mid-season. He previously served as the 49ers’ defensive coordinator.
• Chris Shula: The grandson of legendary coach Don Shula, he led the Rams’ defense and is also a product of various coaching roles in the league.
• Kevin Stefanski: A former Coach of the Year, Stefanski was fired by the Browns after several seasons and is known for his offensive acumen.

Interview Process and Considerations

The Dolphins began the interview process with Kubiak scheduled for Saturday. Interviews with the other candidates are anticipated in the coming days. Harbaugh remains a top target but has not yet committed to any interviews, as he’s weighing options from several teams, including the Giants.

Factors influencing Harbaugh’s decision include quarterback stability, team roster, salary cap situation, and working relationships with team management. The Dolphins, respecting McDaniel, opted to wait for a general manager’s appointment before moving forward with the search.

Additional Coaching Prospects

Beyond the primary candidates, the Dolphins are also considering:

• Jeff Hafley (Packers Defensive Coordinator)
• Adam Stenavich (Packers Offensive Coordinator)
• Mike McCarthy (former Cowboys Coach)
• Anthony Weaver (Dolphins Defensive Coordinator)
• Anthony Campanile (former Dolphins Assistant)

The Dolphins must adhere to the NFL’s Rooney Rule, requiring interviews with at least two minority candidates. Furthermore, the coaching interview process is subject to NFL regulations — teams can only conduct virtual interviews with coaches still involved in the playoffs until their seasons conclude.

This search marks a critical juncture for the Dolphins, with the potential to redefine the team’s trajectory for the next season and beyond. As interviews are scheduled, the organization hopes to establish a strategic direction under its new leadership.