Overview
- Multiple outlets including NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and ESPN report Miami has formally asked to speak with Sheppard, with timing of an interview not yet disclosed.
- Sheppard, 38, is a first‑year defensive coordinator after three seasons coaching Detroit’s linebackers, and he played for the Dolphins in 2014–2015.
- He is part of a broad candidate pool that also features John Harbaugh, Kevin Stefanski, Robert Saleh, Chris Shula, Jeff Hafley and Seattle OC Klint Kubiak, who has interviewed.
- Detroit’s defense ranked 18th in total yards and 22nd in scoring in 2025 as injuries hit the secondary, though Dan Campbell publicly praised Sheppard’s growth.
- The opening follows last week’s firing of Mike McDaniel, with Miami evaluating several options as its head‑coach search progresses.