Dolphins Part Ways With GM Jeff Ireland

The Miami Dolphins announced on Tuesday that they have agreed to part ways with GM Jeff Ireland.

Armando Salguero of the Miami Herald reports that Ross wanted to takeaway some of Ireland’s decision-making power regarding personnel next season.

• Salguero adds that Ross wanted to bring in someone who would have personnel powers over Ireland.
• Ian Rapoport reports that the Dolphins will conduct an immediate search for “new leadership.” 
• Rapoport adds that V.P. of football administration Dawn Aponte will be in charge for now.
• Brian Gaine is a “strong” in-house candidate for their GM job, according to Rapoport.
• The Dolphins reportedly want to keep Gaine, but intend to look for someone who would be above him in the chain of command, per Salguero.
• Jeff Darlington doesn’t anticipate Gaine replacing Ireland and believes they will seek out someone to oversee the organization.
• Jason La Canfora mentions that Steelers exec Omar Khan would be great fit for the job.

Statement from the Dolphins owner Stephen Ross and Jeff Ireland:

“I want to personally thank Jeff for his hard work and dedication in building the team over the past six years,” said Ross. “After a series of discussions, we both felt that it was in our mutual best interest to part ways. Jeff was a loyal and dedicated member of the Dolphins and we wish him and his family nothing but the best.”

“I’ve spent the last six years with the best organization in football,” added Ireland. “Steve and I came to an agreement that the best thing moving forward for all parties would be to part ways. I’d like to thank Steve for all his support and kindness. I’ve had the opportunity to work with some of the most amazing people during this time and I’d like to thank them all from the bottom of my heart. “

It appeared as though Dolphins owner Stephen Ross was prepared to keep Ireland in place for another year as reports indicated that Ross did not want to go back on his word after telling him that he was safe.

The Dolphins recently fired OC Mike Sherman as well, so there is some question as to whether or not HC Joe Philbin will also be retained.

Ireland joined the Dolphins in 2005 after Miami hired Bill Parcells as Executive Vice President of Football Operations. The Dolphins have missed the playoffs for five straight seasons and only had one playoff appearance with Ireland at the helm.

Miami’s roster does have building blocks, but there are also obvious needs such offensive line. They should be able to find a number quality options depending on what they elect to do with the opening.