What's happened
Troy Aikman, ESPN analyst and former Cowboys quarterback, is consulting on Miami's vacant GM role but is not a candidate. His involvement aims to provide outside league insights during the search, which follows the firing of GM Chris Grier after a poor season start.
What's behind the headline?
Strategic Use of Aikman
Aikman's involvement reflects Miami's desire for an outside perspective in their GM search, leveraging his league contacts and reputation. His role is similar to how other organizations have used external consultants, but he is not expected to stay long-term.
Impact on Team Dynamics
While Aikman’s insights could influence the selection process, his presence might also create internal tensions or perceptions of external interference. The Dolphins aim to find a GM aligned with their scouting-focused philosophy, which could reshape their organizational structure.
Broader NFL Context
This move underscores the NFL's increasing openness to outside voices in management decisions, especially amid coaching and GM turnover. Miami's approach may set a precedent for other teams seeking external expertise without full hiring commitments.
Future Outlook
The GM search is expected to begin next week, with Miami prioritizing candidates with scouting backgrounds. Aikman’s role will likely conclude once the new GM is appointed, but his influence could have lasting effects on the team’s strategic direction.
What the papers say
The AP News reports that Aikman is not being considered as a candidate but is consulting during the GM search, emphasizing his league contacts and outside perspective. The NY Post highlights that Miami's GM search is their first since 2014, with Aikman’s involvement similar to the Warriors' use of Bob Myers. Both articles note that Aikman’s role is temporary and focused on interviews, not a long-term position. The articles also discuss the Dolphins' recent season struggles and the ongoing questions about coach Mike McDaniel's job security, providing context for the urgency of the GM search.
How we got here
Miami fired longtime GM Chris Grier after a 2-7 start to the season. The team has since improved to 7-9, but questions about coach Mike McDaniel's job security persist amid injuries and inconsistent performance. Aikman's role is to assist in the GM search, which is focusing on candidates with scouting backgrounds.
Go deeper
More on these topics
-
The Miami Dolphins are a professional American football team based in the Miami metropolitan area. The Dolphins compete in the National Football League as a member of the league's American Football Conference East division.
-
Troy Kenneth Aikman is a former American football quarterback who played in the National Football League for 12 seasons with the Dallas Cowboys. He played college football at UCLA, and was drafted first overall by the Cowboys in the 1989 NFL Draft.