The denial comes as the Dolphins, led by new head coach Jeff Hafley and new general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan, continue fleshing out their offensive staff. The team is specifically focused on filling the quarterbacks coach role as part of a broader reshaping of the unit.
Gradkowski, a former NFL quarterback who joined the Lions’ staff last year, has a diverse coaching background including a stint at Toledo and time with the St. Louis BattleHawks in the XFL/UFL. He also helped wide receivers coach Scottie Montgomery efforts to broaden his own resume.
Detroit blocked the interview because Gradkowski’s potential move would be considered a lateral one (offensive assistant or quarterbacks coach), allowing the Lions to intervene in the process.
This development follows the Dolphins’ high-profile but brief hiring of Nathaniel Hackett, who left after a week to become the Arizona Cardinals’ offensive coordinator. The interim coaching shakeup left Miami pursuing another fit at quarterback coach.
Rumors around the Dolphins’ QB search have floated options such as Malik Willis, whose return to familiarity with Hafley and Sullivan is noted, and Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins, noted as a potential cost-effective addition. The article suggests Gradkowski’s NFL experience could still make him an attractive fit if a suitable opportunity arises.
For Miami, the denial will sting, but Gradkowski remains a rising name in NFL coaching circles who could be considered again down the line. In the meantime, the Dolphins’ current quarterback room is described as potentially reliant on Quinn Ewers, their 2025 seventh-round pick, if no immediate upgrade materializes.
