Chris Shula: The Rising Star Head Coach Candidate Taking the NFL by Storm
The Miami Dolphins recently interviewed Los Angeles Rams defensive coordinator Chris Shula, and the buzz around his candidacy is rapidly growing. Shula has quickly emerged as a top contender for multiple head coaching vacancies across the NFL, also interviewing with the Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers on Friday, with additional teams reportedly expressing interest. It’s becoming increasingly likely that Shula will be leading a team as head coach sooner rather than later.
A Coaching Lineage and Proven Track Record
Shula’s connection to the Miami Dolphins is undeniable. He’s the grandson of the legendary Don Shula, arguably the greatest coach in NFL history. Don Shula led the Dolphins from 1970-1995, delivering two Super Bowl victories, including the iconic 1972 undefeated 17-0 season. His record of 347 total wins remains an NFL benchmark. However, Chris Shula hasn’t simply benefited from his family name.
He’s diligently built his coaching career over 15 years, gaining experience at both the professional and collegiate levels. Since joining the Rams in 2017 under Sean McVay, Shula has learned from a succession of highly respected defensive coordinators – Wade Phillips, Brandon Staley, and Raheem Morris – all of whom have gone on to become head coaches themselves. This diverse mentorship has clearly shaped his coaching philosophy.
The Dolphins’ Pursuit of a Culture Change
The Dolphins are undergoing a significant shift, beginning with the appointment of new general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan. While the team faces potential cap challenges in 2026, establishing a winning culture is paramount to the success of this new regime. Finding a head coach isn’t just about X’s and O’s; it’s about finding a commanding leader who can earn the immediate respect of the locker room.
Success with the Rams: Developing Talent and Winning Football
Shula’s tenure with the Rams has been marked by consistent success. The team has achieved winning records in eight of the nine seasons he’s been on staff. He’s coached in two Super Bowls, including a victory in Super Bowl LVI against the Cincinnati Bengals. This season, the Rams defense, under Shula’s guidance, ranked 10th in points allowed and 5th in takeaways.
Notably, Shula has a knack for developing players, particularly those drafted in the mid-to-late rounds and undrafted free agents. Take Byron Young, a 2023 third-round pick, who exploded for 12 sacks this season. This ability to maximize player potential is a crucial quality the Dolphins should prioritize.
The Dolphins possess a young, relatively unproven defense, including recent first-round picks Chop Robinson and Kenneth Grant. Shula’s proven ability to nurture young talent could be instrumental in unlocking their potential.
“I couldn’t think of a better person on the field, a better person off the field, a smarter guy, a guy that was really my right-hand man in coaching, and that’s going way back to when I was a young coach. As much as he got from me, I got from him.” – Raheem Morris, former Rams defensive coordinator (TheRams.com)
Why Chris Shula Fits the Dolphins’ Vision
Hiring Chris Shula represents a significant step in the right direction for the Dolphins. The changes at both general manager and head coach are aimed at building a sustainable winning culture – something the franchise hasn’t experienced since their last playoff win in 2000. Beyond the legacy of his name, Shula brings over 15 years of coaching experience, a demonstrated ability to develop talent, and a deep understanding of what it takes to build a winning team. He’s a rising star in the coaching world, and the Dolphins could be the team to benefit from his leadership.
