Jeff Hafley Encouraged to Coach Boldly in 2026

The Miami Dolphins are set to kick off their season, marking the debut of new head coach Jeff Hafley. With the team facing low expectations, Hafley is encouraged to take bold risks in his coaching approach.

In his first game against the Las Vegas Raiders, Hafley is advised to embrace an aggressive strategy, such as making daring fourth-down calls or attempting two-point conversions. The Dolphins, the youngest team in the league, feature a roster with many recent draft picks and players on prove-it deals, contributing to the low expectations for the season.

Given the challenging schedule ahead and the opportunity to establish a strong team culture, Hafley is urged to push the limits of his players. This season is seen as a chance to evaluate talent and build for the future, similar to underdog teams in college football that take risks when facing stronger opponents.