The Miami Dolphins are currently facing a significant crossroads in their coaching and organizational structure. With Darrell Bevell, the team’s current offensive coordinator, reportedly a potential candidate for a reunion with Pete Carroll and Russell Wilson in Las Vegas, the Dolphins’ future may be altered in unexpected ways. A possible exit by Bevell would raise questions not just about his departure, but also about the Dolphins’ offensive identity, stability, and long-term direction.
The Situation at Hand: Darrell Bevell’s Role with the Dolphins
Darrell Bevell was hired by the Dolphins in 2021, bringing a wealth of experience from various stints across the NFL. Bevell is known for his work with quarterbacks, having coached Matt Hasselbeck in Seattle and helping Russell Wilson develop into one of the league’s most prolific quarterbacks during his time with the Seahawks. Under Bevell’s watch, the Dolphins offense has shown some promise, particularly in its ability to blend running and passing elements. However, the team has not yet reached its full potential, and the coaching staff remains under scrutiny as Miami strives to build a championship-caliber roster.
Bevell’s role with the Dolphins hasn’t been without challenges. While Tua Tagovailoa has shown promise, he has faced consistency issues, especially with the offensive line often struggling to provide protection. Given these obstacles, Bevell has been tasked with developing an offense that can capitalize on Tua’s strengths—his accuracy and quick release—while compensating for the weaknesses around him.
Despite the difficulties, the Dolphins have managed to improve their offensive identity, integrating a more dynamic, vertical passing game along with a creative run scheme. However, if reports are true and Bevell is on the verge of a departure, the team could be facing another period of transition, potentially shaking up the continuity that Mike McDaniel, the head coach, is attempting to establish in Miami.
The Rumors: Darrell Bevell’s Potential Return to Seattle
The rumors surrounding Bevell’s potential move to Las Vegas, working alongside his former colleagues Pete Carroll and Russell Wilson, have generated considerable attention. As head coach of the Seattle Seahawks, Pete Carroll was instrumental in shaping the team’s identity, which included an emphasis on a strong defense, a run-heavy offense, and a quarterback-friendly system designed around Wilson’s unique skill set. Together, Carroll and Wilson formed a partnership that led the Seahawks to a Super Bowl championship, and there’s a sentiment that they could rekindle that success in Las Vegas.
Russell Wilson’s recent tenure with the Denver Broncos has been disappointing. After being traded to Denver in 2022, Wilson struggled with consistency and adapting to new head coach Nathaniel Hackett’s system. Despite high hopes for Wilson and the Broncos, they failed to live up to expectations, leading to the firing of Hackett and the subsequent hiring of Sean Payton. Given that the Wilson-Carroll relationship was so productive in Seattle, the idea of reuniting in a new, fresh environment with Bevell as an integral part of that structure holds appeal.
Bevell has a unique connection to both Carroll and Wilson, and the notion of him rejoining the duo in Las Vegas could provide a sense of continuity for Wilson as he looks to revitalize his career. Las Vegas has been searching for the right formula to return to playoff contention after a turbulent few years, and an offensive coordinator with Bevell’s experience could be just the piece they need.
The Impact on the Dolphins: What Would Bevell’s Departure Mean?
Should Bevell leave for Las Vegas, the Dolphins would likely face several challenges, both immediate and long-term. First and foremost, the loss of an experienced offensive coordinator would leave a void in Miami’s offensive strategy. While head coach Mike McDaniel is an offensive-minded coach and has worked with quarterbacks in his own right, losing a trusted assistant like Bevell could stall the Dolphins’ progression. McDaniel, while capable, might find himself stretched thin trying to fill that gap, especially if the Dolphins are looking to take the next step in their offensive evolution.
Moreover, Tua Tagovailoa’s development would become a key concern. Bevell’s knowledge of quarterback mechanics and his ability to tailor systems to a quarterback’s strengths have been beneficial for Tua. A change in offensive coordinator could affect Tagovailoa’s comfort level in the system, as he would need to adjust to a new voice and approach. Given the injury concerns surrounding Tua, continuity in his development is crucial for the Dolphins, and any disruption could make the situation more precarious.
Another potential issue could be with Miami’s free-agent and draft strategy. If Bevell were to leave, it might create uncertainty around the direction the Dolphins would take in the offseason, as they might reassess their offensive scheme to fit a new coordinator’s style. For instance, if the Dolphins were to hire someone who prefers a more run-heavy scheme or a different type of passing attack, it could influence the kind of personnel they target in the draft or free agency. In the worst-case scenario, this type of turnover could cause a shift in the team’s philosophy, which would delay their growth.
Potential Replacements for the Dolphins
If Bevell does indeed depart, the Dolphins would likely look for a replacement who fits their system. Miami has a modern, up-tempo, and often innovative offensive structure under McDaniel, which blends elements of the Shanahan system with McDaniel’s personal flair. There are several candidates who could step into the offensive coordinator role and keep Miami’s offensive momentum going.
One possible candidate could be Frank Reich, former head coach of the Carolina Panthers and former offensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles. Reich has a strong background in developing quarterbacks and could be an attractive option for the Dolphins as they continue to build around Tua. Another potential candidate could be Eric Bieniemy, the offensive coordinator for the Washington Commanders, who has been highly regarded for his ability to create explosive offenses and develop quarterbacks. While Bieniemy’s tenure in Kansas City was marked by success, he may be looking for an opportunity to build his own identity in a new location.
Additionally, the Dolphins could consider promoting from within, elevating a position coach who already understands the offensive system in place. Someone like Darrell Bevell’s current assistant, or Mike McDaniel’s trusted offensive staff members, could step up to maintain continuity and avoid a disruptive overhaul.
The Las Vegas Raiders: A Team in Transition
Meanwhile, in Las Vegas, the Raiders have been in a period of transition. The franchise has been unable to find the right blend of leadership and consistency at both the coaching and quarterback positions. Derek Carr was the Raiders’ longtime starting quarterback, but after his departure in 2023, the team faced another round of uncertainty with Jimmy Garoppolo. While Garoppolo is a capable quarterback, he has not yet demonstrated the same level of elite play that Carr did during his best seasons.
The Raiders’ decision to bring in Bevell would suggest an emphasis on stabilizing the offense and providing Wilson with the best possible environment to succeed. The team could be looking for a fresh start with Bevell, who could work with Wilson to unlock his potential in the same way he did with him in Seattle. Las Vegas represents an interesting destination for a coaching reunion, as it offers an opportunity to build a new offense around a proven quarterback in a city hungry for a winner.
Conclusion
The potential departure of Darrell Bevell from the Miami Dolphins to reunite with Pete Carroll and Russell Wilson in Las Vegas would undoubtedly have significant implications for both teams. For the Dolphins, it would mean the loss of an experienced coordinator in the midst of their offensive development.
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