Dolphins Hire Nathaniel Hackett to Boost QB Development Amidst AFC Coaching Shakeup
January 30, 2026
The Miami Dolphins have hired Nathaniel Hackett as their quarterbacks coach, taking over from Darrell Bevell and reporting to offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik, with a focus on quarterback development rather than play-calling.
Hackett’s NFL résumé includes stints with the Packers, Buccaneers, Bills, Jaguars, and a controversial 2023-24 tenure with the Jets, where offensive metrics were notably poor.
Miami’s staffing move is framed as part of a broader push to stabilize and innovate the offense ahead of the 2026 season, potentially signaling a shift in quarterback development strategy for Tua Tagovailoa and others.
Beyond Miami, the hire is seen as part of ongoing AFC competitive dynamics and signals interest in expanding the NFL’s reach internationally as part of the league’s growth.
The article invites readers to follow NFL Trade Rumors for more insider news and social updates on coaching moves.
Multiple related stories and interviews are noted, indicating an active coaching carousel and ongoing candidacies across NFL teams.
Projected outcomes include an offense revamp in camps, improved quarterback progression, and heightened fan engagement as a result of the new coaching approach.
The changes are expected to intensify QB competition, with potential adjustments to offense to leverage faster, more mobile passing concepts aligned with the roster.
Hackett’s recent public perception includes moments highlighting sideline interactions and on-field demeanor as part of his broader coaching narrative.
The hiring reflects a broader NFL trend of strategic coaching changes aimed at stabilizing offenses and elevating quarterback development.
Overall, the move signals Miami’s willingness to pursue unconventional coaching strategies to drive offense transformation and quarterback mentorship.
The objective is to improve quarterback development and offensive innovation under Slowik’s play-calling framework while Hackett focuses on quarterback coaching.
Summary based on 21 sources
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Sources

New York Post • Jan 29, 2026
Ex-Jets offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett lands with Dolphins as quarterbacks coach
Sports Illustrated • Jan 30, 2026
Dolphins to Hire Ex-Broncos Head Coach As Quarterbacks Coach
All Dolphins • Jan 30, 2026
Dolphins Coaching Staff Tracker: Former Head Coach Comes In
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel • Jan 30, 2026
Jeff Hafley hires another Packers assistant to his Dolphins staff