The Miami Dolphins have made a significant move to reshape their front office, finalising an agreement to bring in Jon-Eric Sullivan as their new general manager. This decision comes on the heels of a disappointing 2025 season and the recent firing of head coach Mike McDaniel.
From Packers Intern to Dolphins GM: A Two-Decade Journey
Jon-Eric Sullivan is not a new name in NFL scouting circles. He brings over two decades of experience, all cultivated within the highly respected Green Bay Packers organisation. Sullivan joined the Packers back in 2003 as a scouting intern and meticulously climbed the ladder.
His career path in Green Bay saw him serve as a college scout, director of college scouting, and co-director of player personnel. Most recently, he held the position of vice president of player personnel since 2022. In this role, he worked closely with General Manager Brian Gutekunst, contributing to a team that reached the playoffs in six of the past seven seasons.
The Immediate Challenge: Finding a New Head Coach
Sullivan's first and most critical task in his new role with the Dolphins will be to hire a new head coach. This follows the franchise's decision to part ways with Mike McDaniel this past Thursday. Under McDaniel, the team had playoff appearances in 2022 and 2023 but faltered to a 7-10 record in 2025.
Rumours have linked several names to the vacant position, including former Baltimore Ravens coach John Harbaugh. However, sources indicate Miami had not made contact with Harbaugh as of Thursday. Another potential candidate with a direct link to Sullivan is Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley. Hafley, who has drawn interest from other teams like the Cardinals and Falcons, shares a professional history with the new Dolphins GM.
A Packers Pedigree for a Franchise Seeking Stability
The hiring of Sullivan signals a clear intent from Dolphins owner Stephen Ross. After parting ways with long-time GM Chris Grier earlier in the season and conducting interviews with candidates from teams like the 49ers and Chargers, Miami opted for proven personnel expertise from a successful organisation.
Sullivan now joins a notable list of Packers executives who have ascended to GM roles elsewhere, including Ted Thompson, John Schneider, and Reggie McKenzie. For a Dolphins franchise desperate for stability after consecutive losing seasons, Sullivan's background in smart drafting and roster building in Green Bay will be invaluable.
The team faces a pivotal offseason requiring cap management, clear coaching direction, and potential decisions at the quarterback position. The hope in Miami is that Jon-Eric Sullivan's two-decade foundation in one of the NFL's most stable environments will be the catalyst for a fresh start.
