Vic Fangio was a reluctant Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator.
And now he’s a former Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator.
Fangio’s time with the Dolphins lasted just one season. The team announced a mutual parting of ways on Wednesday.
And he might not be out of work long.
ESPN reported that Fangio is the top target to replace Sean Desai as the Philadelphia Eagles’ defensive coordinator.
Why Miami Dolphins, Vic Fangio Parted Ways
Wednesday’s news came less than two weeks after the Dolphins’ first-round playoff exit. And it came less than a year after Fangio took the job despite dragging his feet.
There were whispers all along that Fangio preferred to stay in Philadelphia, where he was a consultant for Nick Sirianni. And now that the DC job is open again, it appears that Fangio will land at his first choice.
“I want to thank Vic for his contributions in 2023,” Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel said in a news release. “When we assessed the season, it became apparent that this was the best path forward for all parties involved.
“Now, we turn our focus to 2024 and beyond with urgency as we identify the best candidate to lead our defense moving forward. We remain steadfastly committed to the development of our players and to building a winning team with sustained success.”
The move ensures the Dolphins will have their third different defensive coordinator in as many years. McDaniel inherited Josh Boyer from Brian Flores’ staff, but they parted ways after just one season.
McDaniel’s search will be fascinating. Will the Dolphins want to change systems for the third time in as many years or opt for continuity?
If it’s the latter, perhaps former Chargers coach Brandon Staley and current Dolphins linebackers coach Anthony Campanile are viable options.
KEEP READING: The Dolphins Should Probably Trade Their First-Round Pick (Again)
Other intriguing names this cycle include current Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero, former Giants DC Wink Martindale, ex-Commanders HC Ron Rivera, Ravens defensive backs coach Dennard Wilson, Titans cornerbacks coach Chris Harris, and Jets safeties coach Marquand Manuel.
In Fangio’s lone season with the Dolphins, they ranked 10th in total defense (318.3 per game), 10th in yards per play (5.1), but 22nd in scoring (23).
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