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Dolphins Pursue Unexpected OC Candidates

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Saturday, January 31st 2026 at 2:26 GMT by 7News Miami
      Locales: Florida, Minnesota, UNITED STATES

MIAMI, FL - January 31st, 2026 - The Miami Dolphins are aggressively pursuing a new offensive coordinator following the dismissal of Darrell Bevell earlier this month. While many anticipated a search focusing on established offensive minds, the Dolphins appear to be embracing a broader approach, interviewing a surprising mix of candidates, including sitting head coaches and defensive specialists. The team has reportedly engaged in conversations with both Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski and Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley, signaling a willingness to think outside the box as they aim to elevate their offensive production.

Bevell's departure came after two seasons where the Dolphins showed flashes of potential but ultimately failed to consistently translate talent into results. Despite possessing dynamic playmakers like wide receiver Tyreek Hill and running back Raheem Mostert (who, at 31, is entering what is likely his final seasons), the offense struggled with consistency and red-zone efficiency. The decision to move on from Bevell wasn't entirely unexpected, given the team's ambitions to contend for a Super Bowl.

The interview with Kevin Stefanski has sent ripples through the NFL landscape. Stefanski, who recently concluded a highly successful season with the Browns, guiding them to an 11-5 record and a playoff berth, is widely considered one of the league's brightest offensive minds. He orchestrated a potent run game in Cleveland, effectively utilizing a committee of running backs and a strong offensive line. The question remains: why would a head coach with a proven track record be interested in a demotion to coordinator? Speculation ranges from a potential desire to focus solely on play-calling without the administrative burdens of being a head coach, to an unconfirmed report of friction within the Browns' ownership group. Several analysts suggest the Dolphins' existing roster, particularly Hill and Mostert, presents an immediate and attractive opportunity to build a top-tier offense, something that might appeal to Stefanski's competitive drive.

Perhaps more surprising is the Dolphins' interest in Jeff Hafley. While Hafley currently leads the Vikings' defense, his resume includes a significant stint as the offensive coordinator at Boston College from 2019-2020. During his time with the Eagles, he demonstrated an ability to develop quarterbacks and implement creative offensive schemes. His defensive success in Minnesota, which saw a noticeable improvement in pass coverage and overall defensive efficiency, highlights his coaching acumen and adaptability.

The Dolphins' pursuit of Hafley underscores a growing trend in the NFL: valuing coaches who possess a comprehensive understanding of all facets of the game. Many teams are now recognizing that offensive and defensive strategies are increasingly intertwined, and a coordinator with a broader perspective can be a valuable asset. The ability to anticipate defensive adjustments and exploit weaknesses on both sides of the ball is becoming paramount in a league defined by strategic complexity. This also suggests that Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel, who has a strong offensive background himself, might be seeking a coordinator who can offer a different perspective and challenge his own thinking.

Beyond Stefanski and Hafley, sources indicate the Dolphins are also vetting a handful of other candidates with more traditional offensive backgrounds, including established quarterback coaches and coordinators from successful offenses around the league. However, the high-profile interviews with Stefanski and Hafley have clearly positioned the Dolphins as a team willing to explore unconventional options.

The decision on who will ultimately call the plays for the Dolphins will be crucial. The team has invested heavily in offensive talent, and finding the right leader to unlock that potential is essential. While landing Stefanski would undoubtedly be a coup, even if a long shot, Hafley presents an intriguing alternative - a coach with offensive experience, a defensive mindset, and a proven ability to teach and motivate players. The coming weeks will be filled with further interviews and evaluations, but one thing is certain: the Dolphins are determined to find an offensive coordinator who can take them to the next level. The pressure is on to maximize the remaining years of the Hill/Mostert dynamic duo, and build an offense that can truly compete with the league's elite.