NFL Hall of Famer Troy Aikman is assisting the Miami Dolphins in their search for a new general manager, providing advisory input without seeking the role himself. The move comes after the team fired long-time GM Chris Grier in October amid a disappointing season. Aikman, valued for his league-wide connections, will participate in interviews as owner Stephen Ross seeks fresh perspectives on the franchise's direction.
The Miami Dolphins have enlisted Troy Aikman, the former Dallas Cowboys quarterback and current ESPN broadcaster, as a consultant for their general manager search. According to reports from NFL Network's Tom Pelissero and CBS Sports' Jonathan Jones, Aikman is not a candidate for the position but will offer insights drawn from his extensive NFL relationships, including through his work on Monday Night Football. At 59, Aikman brings nearly 25 years of experience as an NFL analyst, and the Dolphins appreciate his ability to ask probing questions during the process.
This advisory role mirrors the Washington Commanders' use of former Golden State Warriors executive Bob Myers in their own searches two years ago, though Aikman is not expected to remain with the organization afterward. Hall of Famer Dan Marino will continue his involvement in the Dolphins' front-office decisions. The team is prioritizing candidates with strong scouting backgrounds, with interviews set to begin next week.
The search follows the Dolphins' dismissal of Chris Grier on October 31, after more than nine seasons in which the team failed to win a playoff game, extending a 25-year drought. Grier, who joined the organization in 2010 and became GM in 2016, was let go after a 2-7 start to the season. Interim GM Champ Kelly has overseen a 5-2 turnaround, leaving Miami at 7-9 heading into their Week 18 finale against the New England Patriots. Owner Stephen Ross retained coach Mike McDaniel, who is in his fourth season with a 35-32 record, including back-to-back losing campaigns after postseason appearances in his first two years.
The franchise also faces uncertainty at quarterback following the benching of Tua Tagovailoa. Aikman has previously expressed mild interest in front-office work, telling the Sports Business Radio Podcast last month: "Will it come along at some point? Maybe, I doubt it, but maybe." He acknowledged the challenges: "It's a young man's game, it's a young man's world."
This consultation underscores Ross's push for additional viewpoints as the Dolphins aim to reshape their leadership and end their playoff woes.
