After a rough start to the 2025 season, the Miami Dolphins made a bold move by firing their general manager, Chris Grier. The team’s record stood at a dismal 1-6, and it was clear that changes needed to be made in order to turn things around. In a surprising move, the Dolphins handed the reins to Champ Kelly, who became the interim general manager for the remainder of the season.
Kelly, who had been with the team since 2019 as the director of pro personnel, was faced with a daunting task. Not only did he have to step into the role of general manager mid-season, but he also had to make crucial decisions for the franchise as he oversaw the 2025 trade deadline.
Despite not being retained after the season, Kelly wasted no time in making his mark on the team. He immediately got to work evaluating the roster and identifying areas of improvement. With the trade deadline looming, Kelly had to make some tough decisions in order to put the Dolphins in the best position to succeed.
One of the biggest moves made by Kelly was acquiring a player from division rival, the Buffalo Bills. In a recent interview, Bills general manager Brandon Beane revealed that the team had received the best offer for one of their players from none other than Kelly and the Dolphins.
Beane stated, “Champ Kelly and the Dolphins made the best offer for our player. It was a tough decision to make, but we ultimately felt that it was the best move for our team.”
The player in question has not been named, but it is clear that Kelly was determined to make a significant impact on the Dolphins’ roster. This move not only shows Kelly’s shrewdness as a general manager, but also his willingness to do whatever it takes to improve the team.
Despite the fact that Kelly was only the interim general manager, he approached his role with the same level of dedication and determination as a permanent GM. He was not afraid to make bold moves and take risks in order to put the Dolphins in a better position for the future.
In addition to his trade deadline moves, Kelly also made some key signings and roster changes that helped the team finish the season with a respectable 7-9 record. While it may not have been the turnaround that fans were hoping for, it was a significant improvement from their 1-6 start.
Kelly’s short tenure as interim general manager may have come to an end, but his impact on the Dolphins will not be forgotten. He showed great leadership and decision-making skills during a challenging time for the team, and his contributions were crucial in setting the foundation for future success.
As the Dolphins begin their search for a new general manager, they would be wise to consider Champ Kelly for the permanent role. His brief but impressive stint as interim GM has proven that he has what it takes to lead the team to success.
In the end, Kelly’s time as interim general manager may have been short-lived, but his impact on the Dolphins will be long-lasting. He made tough decisions, brought in key players, and helped turn the team’s season around. The future looks bright for the Miami Dolphins, and Champ Kelly played a significant role in making that happen.