Dolphins set to hire Sullivan as GM, following McDaniel's firing after 7-10 season

The Miami Dolphins are set to hire Jon-Eric Sullivan as their new general manager, marking a significant shift in the organization following two consecutive losing seasons.

Why it matters: The Dolphins decision to bring in Sullivan reflects their commitment to revitalizing a franchise that has struggled to find consistent success in recent years.

• Sullivan's extensive experience with the Green Bay Packers, where he served as vice president of player personnel since 2022 and has been with the organization since 2003, positions him well to reshape the Dolphins' roster.
• This move signals a potential change in direction for the team as they look to rebound from a disappointing 7-10 record in 2025.

What’s new: Sullivan will replace the former general manager amid ongoing discussions about the team's head coach and quarterback.

• With Mike McDaniel fired after a lackluster season, there is speculation surrounding possible candidates like John Harbaugh and Jeff Hafley for the coaching position, indicating a comprehensive overhaul in the front office and on the field.

By the numbers: The Dolphins’ struggles have not only affected their standings but also their salary cap situation moving forward.

• Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is facing a $56.4 million cap hit in 2026. Cutting him before June 1 would incur a staggering $99.2 million dead cap hit, while releasing him post-June 1 would spread the impact over two seasons, with $67.2 million affecting the 2026 cap.

Yes, but: While Sullivan's hiring aims to instigate positive changes, the upcoming decisions regarding Tagovailoa and the potential head coach will significantly influence the team's trajectory.

• The Dolphins need to balance immediate roster needs with long-term strategic planning as they navigate these high-stakes choices.

What to watch: As Sullivan steps into his role, attention will turn to how he addresses the personnel challenges within the organization.

• Expect a focus on evaluating the current roster, especially the quarterback position, and determining how to best utilize the available draft picks and free agency options to build a competitive team.

The bottom line: With Sullivan at the helm as general manager, the Dolphins are poised for a critical offseason that will define their future. Making wise decisions in the coming months will be essential for restoring the team’s standing within the league.