Miami, FL – In a groundbreaking announcement that has sent shockwaves across the NFL and thrilled Miami Dolphins fans worldwide, team owner and CEO Stephen M. Ross, along with the Ross family, officially revealed that legendary Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino will return to the organization in 2025 in a newly created executive role: Chief NFL Officer.
This unprecedented move marks a homecoming for one of the most iconic players in NFL history—one whose name has become synonymous with both the Dolphins and the game of football itself.
A Monumental Return
Speaking at a press conference on Monday morning at Hard Rock Stadium, Ross expressed his enthusiasm and vision behind the move.
“Dan Marino is not only the greatest Dolphin of all time, but one of the greatest to ever play the game,” said Ross. “His leadership, football IQ, and passion for this organization are unmatched. Bringing him back in a senior executive role is a transformative moment for the franchise.”
The role of Chief NFL Officer, newly established by the Dolphins’ ownership group, will give Marino broad authority across both football operations and strategic league relations. He will serve as a direct liaison between the Dolphins’ front office and the NFL league office, while also providing mentorship and guidance to both players and coaches.
What the Role Entails
While the Dolphins already have a strong front office under General Manager Chris Grier and Head Coach Mike McDaniel, Marino’s addition adds another layer of football experience and executive influence to the team’s inner circle. According to team sources, Marino will focus on four key areas:
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League Representation: Strengthening the Dolphins’ presence at the NFL level on matters like competition rules, collective bargaining, and policy decisions.
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Football Strategy: Offering high-level advisory support on quarterback development and offensive strategy.
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Player Development: Acting as a mentor for both rookies and veterans, with a focus on leadership, media handling, and life after football.
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Franchise Legacy: Building stronger ties between the team’s past and future through alumni involvement and fan engagement initiatives.
Marino Speaks
Dan Marino, 63, appeared visibly moved during the announcement.
“This franchise has always been home,” Marino said. “I’ve never stopped being a Dolphin. I’m grateful to Stephen Ross and the organization for entrusting me with this opportunity. I’m not coming back to wear a helmet—but I am coming back to help bring another Lombardi Trophy to Miami.”
Marino briefly worked with the organization in an advisory role in the 2010s, but this marks his most formal and powerful position within the front office since his retirement from playing in 1999.
A Living Legend
Drafted in 1983, Marino spent his entire 17-season NFL career with the Dolphins. He retired with numerous passing records, including most career touchdown passes and most career passing yards—records later broken but still highly respected. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2005.
Despite never winning a Super Bowl, Marino’s impact on the game is unquestionable. His quick release, deep passing ability, and swagger changed the way the quarterback position was played. Now, more than two decades later, he returns to influence the next generation of NFL stars from the front office.
Fan and League Reaction
The announcement was met with overwhelming excitement from Dolphins fans. Social media erupted with praise, with hashtags like #MarinoReturns and #FinsUpLegend trending within hours. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell also issued a statement welcoming Marino back into a high-level leadership role.
“Dan Marino has always been a strong ambassador for the NFL,” said Goodell. “His insight and leadership will no doubt benefit both the Dolphins and the league as a whole.”
What’s Next
Marino is expected to formally begin his new duties at the start of the 2025 NFL offseason. With the Dolphins looking to build on recent success and push for a deeper playoff run, his return may provide both inspiration and invaluable guidance at a pivotal moment.
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