{"id":24257,"date":"2026-01-10T05:54:51","date_gmt":"2026-01-10T10:54:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/citystuff.com\/miami\/2026\/01\/10\/packers-executive-to-become-dolphins-gm\/"},"modified":"2026-01-10T05:54:52","modified_gmt":"2026-01-10T10:54:52","slug":"packers-executive-to-become-dolphins-gm","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/citystuff.com\/miami\/2026\/01\/10\/packers-executive-to-become-dolphins-gm\/","title":{"rendered":"Packers executive to become Dolphins GM"},"content":{"rendered":"

Introduction to New Dolphins GM<\/h2>\n

The Miami Dolphins are finalizing a deal to make Jon-Eric Sullivan their new general manager, according to sources. Sullivan, the former Green Bay Packers executive, will be the first key piece in the Dolphins’ organizational reboot. He completed an in-person interview with the Dolphins this week and is expected to take over the role shortly.<\/p>\n

Background on Jon-Eric Sullivan<\/h2>\n

Sullivan spent 22 seasons with the Green Bay Packers, starting as a scouting intern in 2003. He worked his way up to vice president of player personnel in 2022, helping the Packers make the playoffs in three of the last four seasons. Sullivan is the son of Jerry Sullivan, a longtime NFL and college coach who was Miami’s receivers coach in 2004.<\/p>\n

Tasks Ahead for Sullivan<\/h2>\n

Sullivan’s first task will be finding a new head coach, as Mike McDaniel was fired after four seasons. The Dolphins have been linked to former Ravens coach John Harbaugh, though they have not yet heavily pursued him. Other potential candidates with connections to Sullivan include Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley, Mike McCarthy, and Jaguars defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile.<\/p>\n

Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s Future<\/h2>\n

Sullivan will also need to figure out what to do with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who was benched the final three games of the season due to poor play. Tagovailoa threw for 2,660 yards with 20 touchdowns last season but showed a decline in accuracy and mobility after signing a four-year, $212.4 million extension in July 2024. He is guaranteed $54 million for 2026, and releasing him would result in significant salary cap hits.<\/p>\n

Financial Implications<\/h2>\n

The Dolphins would incur a $99 million dead cap charge if they release Tagovailoa next year. However, if the move is designated as a post-June 1 release, those charges are split over two years, with $67.4 million allocated to the 2026 cap and $31.8 million in 2027. Sullivan will need to weigh the financial implications of keeping or releasing Tagovailoa.<\/p>\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\n

The hiring of Jon-Eric Sullivan as the Miami Dolphins’ general manager marks a new era for the organization. With his experience and connections, Sullivan is well-equipped to lead the Dolphins’ reboot. However, he faces significant challenges, including finding a new head coach and determining the future of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.<\/p>\n

FAQs<\/h2>\n