Dolphins make request to interview Robert Saleh in coach search

The Dolphins’ head coach search is turning to a man who has plenty of experience in the AFC East.

Miami has requested to interview 49ers defensive coordinator — and ex-Jets head coach — Robert Saleh for its head coach opening, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported Saturday.

It’s been a busy week for the Dolphins after they fired coach Mike McDaniel on Thursday, which immediately fueled speculation they were moving the chess pieces to land John Harbaugh, the most sought-after free agent coach on the market.

The Dolphins added a twist on Friday, though, hiring Packers vice president of player personnel Jon-Eric Sullivan to take over as their next general manager while passing on longtime Ravens employee Chad Alexander, who worked with Harbaugh for a decade. The Dolphins still have plenty of interest in Harbaugh, per multiple reports.

Saleh was hired by the Jets in 2021 and led Gang Green for three-plus seasons before his eventual axing five games into the 2024 season.

He finished with a 20-36 record, never eclipsing a better record than 7-10.

Saleh returned to San Francisco to take over as defensive coordinator, his second stint filling the role for head coach Kyle Shanahan. Saleh’s defense finished the regular season 13th in points allowed per game (21.8) but ranked 20th in total yards allowed per game (340.2). The 49ers finished tied for second in the NFC West with a 12-5 record, earned a wild-card spot and are set to face the Eagles on the road Sunday.

According to The Athletic’s Dianna Russini, the Dolphins plan to interview former Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski. Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak is also expected to speak with Miami on Saturday, according to NFL Network.

As for McDaniel, he’s reportedly expected to interview for the Titans head coach vacancy this coming week.