Miami Dolphins Are Reportedly Interviewing Franchise Legend Don Shula’s Grandson For Head Coaching Job
This article was originally published on Total Pro Sports.
The Miami Dolphins made an interesting move in their search for a new head coach. According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, the team has asked to interview Los Angeles Rams defensive coordinator Chris Shula.
Pelissero called it a “fun one” because of Shula’s strong family connection to Miami. Chris Shula is the grandson of legendary Dolphins coach Don Shula, who led the team to two Super Bowl titles and the NFL’s only perfect season.
Chris Shula also grew up in Miami and knows the franchise well. He is the son of former Cincinnati Bengals head coach Dave Shula. Now the Dolphins must decide whether this move makes sense as they look for a fresh start after firing coach Mike McDaniel.
Shula A Serious Candidate With Heavy History
Chris Shula is not just a name interview. League sources see him as a real coaching candidate and have linked him to various teams.
Pelissero reported, “The Dolphins have requested an interview with Rams DC Chris Shula for their head coaching job, per source.”
Here’s a fun one: The Dolphins have requested an interview with Rams DC Chris Shula for their head coaching job, per source.
Shula — the grandson of legendary Dolphins coach Don Shula — is eligible to interview next week after the Rams’ wild card game. pic.twitter.com/5Iaq4tcQbz
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) January 10, 2026
Shula became the Rams’ defensive coordinator in 2024 and kept the defense steady after Aaron Donald retired. The unit improved as the season went on, which boosted his head coaching buzz.
He has spent most of his career with the Rams after earlier work with the Chargers. His steady rise has earned league-wide respect, and many teams see him as ready for a bigger role.
The Dolphins know the pressure would be immediate. Fans would compare Chris Shula to his grandfather, Don Shula, right away. That comes with the job. Miami also knows the risk. If things do not work out, the team could face the tough decision of moving on from a Shula, something NFL teams deal with often.
Timing is also important. The Rams are set to play the Carolina Panthers in the Wild Card round. League rules will not allow Miami to interview Shula until the Rams’ playoff run ends. If Los Angeles loses, the Dolphins could act quickly.
Miami is still looking at many candidates, including experienced and proven coaches. Shula is still early in the process, but his connection to the Dolphins has already caught attention around the league.
For now, the Dolphins wait. The opportunity is there.
