It might not have been the sexy hire that Stephen Ross and the Dolphins fan base were looking for but it sure does make a lot of sense.
At around 6:30 on January 20th, after 3 weeks of waiting the Dolphins decided to hire Green Bay Packers offensive coordinator Joe Philbin. Not to be confused with Regis, Joe will become the 10th head coach in Miami Dolphins history, and the seventh to lead the team in the last eight years.
While its pretty clear that Philbin is not what most pictured to be a “young Don Shula,” he was the guy who impressed owner Stephen Ross the most.
The hiring was a bit surprising as most speculated that Denver offensive coordinator Mike McCoy was the favorite to land the job, with Dolphins interim coach Todd Bowles the other finalist.
The Dolphins would like to keep Bowles as defensive coordinator, and Philbin was reportedly receptive, according to the NFL Network. Philbin will most likely raid the Packers coaching staff as Kevin Greene and Todd Clements are just a few names that have be brought up amongst different sources.
The Joe Philbin hire also makes the Dolphins an early offseason favorite to land Matt Flynn, as they had a very strong relationship in Green Bay.
Philbin said this after getting the job: “I have seen how much the fans in South Florida care about the Dolphins, and that passion is one reason why I’m really excited to be here.
“I’m looking forward to their support, and I can’t wait to get started.”
Joe added, “The Dolphins have a strong nucleus to build around, & working with everyone in the organization, I know that together we will return the team to its winning tradition.”
The Dolphins chose wisely deciding to hire a coach who can help this team’s offense grow. Philbin is 50 years old, and has 28 years of coaching experience, including 19 years in college.
Philbin helped the Packers rank in the top 10 in the NFL in yardage in each of the past five seasons, including third in 2011.
Andrew Brandt tweeted. “Calm, cerebral, humble and a skilled offensive mind. His style will resonate with players.”
Brandt’s sentiments pretty sum much up what the Dolphins should expect for their new head coach.
