Weaver was a high-profile candidate for several head coaching openings, but none materialized. Because he would have been eligible for Rooney Rule compensation if he had landed a head coaching job, the Dolphins faced potential burdens, including two third-round picks in such a scenario. With no offers secured, Miami does not receive the compensation.
During his two years in Miami, Weaver helped transform a defense that ranked 22nd in points allowed in 2023 into a unit that reached ninth in 2024, yielding about 21.4 points per game. However, the progression stalled in 2025, as the defense regressed to a bottom-10 finish in points allowed.
The 2025 results drew scrutiny from players and observers. Starting safety Jordan Poyer publicly criticized the scheme, saying players didn’t fully understand the defense and felt isolated within it, contributing to the group’s uneven performance. Weaver acknowledged the challenges, pointing to late arrivals and a youth-heavy roster as factors that hindered early-season cohesion.
In parallel with the defensive shift, Hafley moved to stabilize the coaching staff on offense by retaining pass-game coordinator Bobby Slowik and promoting him to offensive coordinator. This decision, along with the new DC, signals Hafley’s plan to align the Dolphins’ systems across units while continuing to evaluate and integrate talent.
Sean Duggan’s appointment ties into Hafley’s broader vision, given their prior working relationship at Boston College and with the Packers. The move provides continuity for Hafley’s staff as Miami transitions into the 2026 season, with additional staff decisions likely to follow as the team finalizes its roster and on-field plans.
