Though Los Angeles Rams defensive coordinator Chris Shula is still involved in the postseason with his current team, there is an interesting development regarding his plans beyond the conclusion of the 2025 NFL season.
The Miami Dolphins have requested an interview with Chris Shula who is the grandson of the legend Don Shula.
Here’s a fun one: The Dolphins have requested an interview with Rams DC Chris Shula for their head coaching job, per source.
Shula — the grandson of legendary Dolphins coach Don Shula — is eligible to interview next week after the Rams’ wild card game. pic.twitter.com/5Iaq4tcQbz
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) January 10, 2026
Shula, 39, has been in the Rams organization since 2017 serving in various capacities including linebackers coach, pass rush coordinator, and since 2024, he has been the defensive coordinator.
He has spoken about not relying on his last name to get jobs and working hard to earn the opportunities. As his coaching career develops, he is meeting people who knew and worked with his grandfather. This has caused him to learn more and take pride in being related to Don Shula.
Chris Shula, a candidate for the Miami HC job, on his grandfather – Dolphins legendary coach Don:
"I didn't want people to think I got into positions because of the last name.
Initially I was a little reluctant to say (it), now I'm extremely proud of it."#PhinsUp 🐬 pic.twitter.com/zd5N4adNjM
— The List – Dolphins Podcast (@TheListFinsPod) January 10, 2026
Don Shula Dolphins Legacy
The elder Shula was the Miami Dolphins head coach from 1970-1995. Don Shula was the architect of back-to-back Super Bowl titles in 1972 and 1973 including the unprecedented and never to be repeated 1972 perfect season.
Prior to joining the Dolphins, Shula was the Baltimore Colts head coach from 1963-1969.
Long after his retirement from coaching and the NFL, he remained a fixture in the Miami area, as a resident and restaurant owner. He passed away in 2020 at the age of 90.
The Dolphins have not been to the Super Bowl since 1984; the team has not won the AFC East division since 2008. They made playoff appearances in 2022 and 2023.
Miami Dolphins Coaching Search Has Big Name Helping It Along
Hall of Fame Dallas Cowboys quarterback Troy Aikman is assisting with the coaching search. In addition to Shula, other possible candidates include ex-Browns coach Kevin Stefanski, ex-Ravens coach John Harbaugh, and others.
ESPN analyst and Hall of Fame QB Troy Aikman, who consulted on the #Dolphins GM search, will also be working in a similar capacity for their head coach search, sources say.
New GM Jon-Eric Sullivan is leading the search with owner Stephen Ross, but Aikman will assist. pic.twitter.com/b9WuMCrQiQ
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 10, 2026
