Dolphins interview grandson of NFL legend for defensive coordinator job
Sep 20, 2020; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; A general view of the Miami Dolphins logo painted on the field at Hard Rock Stadium prior to the game between the Miami Dolphins and the Buffalo Bills. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
The Miami Dolphins are searching for a new defensive coordinator, and fans will undoubtedly recognize the last name of one of the candidates for the position.
Chris Shula interviewed for the Dolphins’ defensive coordinator job on Thursday, according to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network. The 37-year-old is the grandson of Dolphins legend and Hall of Fame head coach Don Shula.
The #Dolphins are interviewing Chris Shula — grandson of legendary coach Don Shula — for their defensive coordinator job today, per source.
Chris Shula has spent the past seven seasons as an assistant with the #Rams, most recently as pass rush coordinator/linebackers coach. pic.twitter.com/R8G83MWtNd
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) February 1, 2024
The younger Shula has been an assistant coach with the Los Angeles Rams for seven seasons. He served as pass rush coordinator and linebackers coach under Sean McVay in 2023.
Dave Shula, who is Don’s son and Chris’s father, was also a head coach in the NFL with the Cincinnati Bengals from 1992-1996. Many members of the Shula family have followed in Don’s footsteps, as Chris’s uncle Mike is also currently a senior offensive assistant with the Buffalo Bills.
Don Shula is the winningest coach in NFL history. He coached the Dolphins from 1970-1995 and won two Super Bowls with the team, including their undefeated campaign in 1972.
The Dolphins made a big splash last offseason when they hired Vic Fangio as defensive coordinator. They recently parted ways with the veteran coach amid reports that he had issues with players.