The Miami Dolphins are scheduled to interview Kelvin Sheppard for their head coaching position on the morning of January 18, 2026. Sheppard, currently the defensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, will meet with Dolphins management in person, marking a significant step in Miami’s search for a new head coach.
In addition to Sheppard, the Dolphins plan to conduct a second interview with Jeff Hafley on the same day, according to NFL Insider Albert Breer. Hafley’s interview will also take place in person, highlighting Miami’s proactive approach in securing potential candidates.
Sheppard has been with the Lions since 2021, where he has progressed through various coaching roles, starting as an outside linebackers coach before becoming the team’s defensive coordinator this past season. His coaching career began after an eight-year tenure as an NFL linebacker, during which he played two seasons with the Dolphins from 2014 to 2015.
Despite his rapid ascent in the coaching ranks, Sheppard’s candidacy raises questions due to his limited experience. This marks the fifth time the Dolphins have requested an interview with a defensive coordinator who lacks prior head coaching experience. Other candidates include Chris Shula, Anthony Campanile, and Patrick Graham, indicating Miami’s openness to emerging coaching talent.
Interestingly, there appears to be no established connection between Sheppard and the Dolphins’ new general manager, Jon-Eric Sullivan. This situation adds a layer of intrigue to the interview process, as Sheppard is regarded as a promising coach, yet some analysts believe it may be premature for him to step into a head coaching role at this stage in his career.
Currently, no other NFL teams with head coach vacancies have expressed interest in interviewing Sheppard. Last season, the Lions experienced a shake-up in their coaching staff, losing both their offensive and defensive coordinators, with Aaron Glenn taking the head coaching job with the New York Jets and Ben Johnson becoming the head coach of the Chicago Bears.
As the Dolphins continue their search for a new head coach, the outcome of Sheppard’s interview will be closely watched by both fans and analysts alike, potentially setting the stage for a new chapter in Miami’s football history.
