In a surprising development, the Miami Dolphins announced on Wednesday that Vic Fangio would not be returning as the team's defensive coordinator in 2024. Fangio and the Dolphins have mutually agreed to part ways after just one season together.

Head coach Mike McDaniel expressed his gratitude for Fangio's contributions during the 2023 season, but stated that after careful assessment, it was clear that this decision was in the best interest of all parties involved. McDaniel emphasized the team's commitment to identifying the best candidate to lead their defense moving forward and their dedication to developing their players and building a winning team with sustained success.

An interesting twist to the story is that ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that Miami is allowing Fangio to leave his contract to be closer to his family in Pennsylvania. Additionally, Schefter mentioned that Fangio is expected to be a top target for the Philadelphia Eagles' defensive coordinator vacancy.

Fangio had joined the Dolphins as a consultant in 2022 and it has been reported that he would have likely been the Eagles' choice to replace former coordinator Jonathan Gannon, had the organization known that Gannon was going to be appointed as the head coach of the Arizona Cardinals.

The Dolphins' defense had a decent performance in the 2023 season, finishing 10th in yards allowed but faltering in points allowed, ranking 22nd. This change means that Miami will now be seeking their third defensive coordinator in three seasons under McDaniel.

As the search for a new defensive coordinator commences, the Miami Dolphins will be looking to fill this critical position with someone who can further strengthen their defensive unit and help propel the team to future success.