Brian Flores is no longer the head coach of the Miami Dolphins, despite a season-ending 8-1 record. Owner Stephen Ross made the announcement on Monday, following Miami’s season-ending win over New England, which raised the team’s record to 9-8.
“After evaluating where we are as an organization and what we need to improve moving forward, I determined that key dynamics of our football organization were not functioning at the level I want them to be and felt that this decision is in the best interests of the Miami Dolphins,” Ross said in a statement.
Brian Flores was the Dolphins’ coach for three seasons. The owner continued by saying that he is encouraged by the young potential on the Dolphins’ roster.
Flores had a record of 24-25 in three seasons as head coach, but sources close to the situation told us that there was a power struggle between him and general manager Chris Grier. Because they were not allowed to speak on behalf of the group, the individuals talked on the condition of anonymity.
Grier will continue to serve as general manager.
Ross stated he has no plans to replace him at a press conference on Monday morning. When asked about Jim Harbaugh, Ross stated, “I love Jim Harbaugh,” but noted that Harbaugh is the University of Michigan’s coach.
“That’s the school where I graduated from, and I’m still quite active there,” Ross explained. “And I’m not going to be the one to remove Jim Harbaugh from the University of Michigan’s coaching staff.” I’m hoping he stays. He’s an excellent coach.”
In talking about the impending coaching search, Ross hinted at the idea of appointing a fourth consecutive non-NFL head coach.
Certainly having the expertise usually helps, he added. He also said that if you discover someone extraordinary who has previously worked as a coordinator or in another role in football, he would take that seriously.
Ross added that their minds, on the other hand, are wide open. They’re basically searching for someone with whom they can collaborate to take this roster to the next level.
