Dolphins Hire Jon-Eric Sullivan as GM, Aiming for Winning Culture

The Miami Dolphins have appointed Jon-Eric Sullivan as their new general manager, tasked with establishing a winning culture in the franchise. This decision follows the dismissal of longtime GM Chris Grier in October 2023, marking a crucial moment as the team seeks to improve after two consecutive losing seasons. Owner Stephen Ross expressed confidence in Sullivan’s vision during the announcement on March 15, 2024.

Ross described his frustration with the Dolphins’ performance since he became the majority owner in 2009. The team has not won a playoff game in 25 years, the longest current drought in the NFL. “When I first bought the team, I said certain things that were important to me,” Ross noted. He emphasized his desire for a team that consistently competes for Super Bowl titles.

Sullivan, who previously spent over two decades with the Green Bay Packers, quickly impressed Ross during their initial interview. “Within ten minutes, I knew he was the right choice,” Ross stated. He underscored the urgency of the situation, indicating to Sullivan that they have the resources necessary to succeed.

In his first public address as GM, Sullivan promised that every decision would prioritize the Miami Dolphins’ best interests. “I will not stand up here and make a whole lot of promises today,” he said, addressing an audience that included family, players, and NFL legends Dan Marino and Troy Aikman. “Every decision that falls within my line of responsibility will be what’s best for the Miami Dolphins, unequivocally.”

Jeff Hafley, the former defensive coordinator for the Packers, has been appointed as Miami’s new head coach. Hafley replaces the latest in a series of head coaches hired without previous NFL head coaching experience, marking a trend for Ross. He acknowledged his readiness for the role, stating, “I feel more than ready and more than ready to do it here.”

One of Sullivan’s immediate challenges will be the quarterback position, following the benching of Tua Tagovailoa in favor of rookie Quinn Ewers during the final games of the previous season. Tagovailoa, who signed a four-year extension valued at $212.4 million in July 2024, has faced scrutiny due to a decline in performance and a history of injuries. He finished the 2025 season with 15 interceptions, the second-highest in the NFL.

Sullivan acknowledged the quarterback situation as a significant concern for the organization. “I’d be naive to think that everybody doesn’t understand that,” he remarked. He emphasized the importance of discussing the matter directly with Tagovailoa before making any decisions. Notably, releasing Tagovailoa would result in a $99 million dead cap charge, complicating the team’s financial situation.

As the Dolphins navigate their offseason, they currently sit approximately $23 million over the salary cap, according to OvertheCap. Sullivan is committed to a methodical approach, drawing on the principles that aided the Packers’ success. “We will draft, develop, and retain our own,” he stated, highlighting the importance of building a cohesive team culture.

Hafley, who improved the Packers’ defense from 17th to 5th overall during his tenure, plans to call plays for Miami’s defense. Offensively, he intends to evaluate the team’s current personnel before implementing a strategy. The Dolphins possess several key players, including running back De’Von Achane and center Aaron Brewer, to build their offensive framework around.

As Miami embarks on this pivotal rebuilding phase, the leadership of Sullivan and Hafley is critical in transforming the Dolphins into a competitive force within the NFL.