Joe Philbinknows he's coming back in 2015, and according to NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport, general manager Dennis Hickey is also safe. The coordinators, however, are another story
During his media session with reporters on Monday, Philbin declined to address the futures of offensive coordinator Bill Lazor and defensive coordinator Kevin Coyle.
"Again, that's a better question for Steve Ross," he said. "I'm not going to address anybody else's future. Steve is the owner."
While the silence could be interpreted either way, it seems like getting rid of Lazor would be foolish. Ryan Tannehill is at a critical point of his career where development is crucial. Saddling him with another system would undoubtedly harm that.
As for Coyle, he'll have to answer to three games where the Dolphins let up more than 35 points or 400 total yards of offense. He figures to end up with a top-10 defense (Miami is currently eighth), though one that has struggled with consistency throughout the season.
Philbin defended Coyle several times during his presser on Monday, and said he "absolutely" believes in his coordinator, according to the Palm Beach Post.
Inevitably, Ross has put Philbin in a difficult situation here. While many could make a case for both coordinators returning, it's difficult to trot Philbin to the podium without all of the information. Now, at least momentarily, two very important jobs hang in the balance, and the coach is left without the important answers.
Would he come back under the assumption that changes would be made in order to pacify the fan base? If so, he'll need to let his top lieutenants know soon.
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