A New Era officially begins: Jeff Hafley Leads First Dolphins Offseason Workouts

The Hafley Era Takes the Field The sounds of whistles and cleats returned to the Baptist Health Training Complex this week as the Miami Dolphins officially kicked off their 2026 voluntary offseason workout program. For the first time since being hired on January 19, head coach Jeff Hafley had the opportunity to lay the groundwork for a franchise undergoing its most radical transformation in decades. Because the Dolphins are under a new coaching regime, they were eligible to begin these Phase One activities on April 7, a full two weeks earlier than teams with returning coaches. This critical head start is intended to facilitate Hafley’s "culture reset" following the departure of the previous administration.

Sullivan Outlines the "Master Plan" While the initial phase of workouts is limited to strength, conditioning, and physical rehabilitation, the front office has been active in defining the team’s new identity. General Manager Jon-Eric Sullivan, who replaced Chris Grier earlier this year, clarified the team's vision in a high-profile interview on Monday. Sullivan addressed the franchise’s decision to move on from former stars, including a record-shattering $99 million dead cap hit resulting from the release of Tua Tagovailoa. He emphasized that new quarterback Malik Willis is not a stopgap, but a cornerstone. "Bringing him in on a three-year deal was very important to us," Sullivan noted. "It’s gonna give us the opportunity to put multiple draft classes around him; in ’27 and ’28 make some noise in free agency."

Rebuilding Through the Draft The Dolphins enter this spring with an unprecedented level of draft capital to support their new direction. Miami currently holds 11 total picks in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft, including two selections in the first round and four in the third. The team has already begun its final pre-draft evaluations, hosting rising prospects like Georgia State wide receiver Ted Hurst for an official visit on Monday. With Pro Bowl talents like Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, and Bradley Chubb no longer on the roster, the Dolphins are focused on a youth movement. Hafley and Sullivan have repeatedly signaled that every starting job is open for competition, setting a high-stakes tone as the team begins its climb back toward AFC East relevance.