Frank

Smith

Smith, who came to Miami along with Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel in 2022, has also talked to the Falcons about their head coaching job. After parting ways with longtime head coach Pete Carroll, the Seahawks are doing their due diligence, interviewing Smith, Raheem Morris, Dan Quinn, and Mike Kafka.

Smith was hired as the Dolphins’ offensive coordinator in 2022, enjoying fast success with Tyreek Hill, Tua Tagovailoa, and company. While head coach Mike McDaniel deserves credit for the Dolphins’ explosive tendencies on offense, Smith has been a part of the success that has led to big games. He has been a hot name during this coaching cycle and now completes an interview with the Panthers, who have thrown a wide blanket for their head coach search.

Smith has been one of the most popular names during this coaching cycle. The Seahawks now become the fifth team to request an interview with Smith, who was hired as the Dolphins’ offensive coordinator back in 2022. While Mike McDaniel receives plenty of credit for Miami’s offensive success, Smith can’t be overlooked. Considered by some as a “best-kept secret” in the league, it’s possible Smith will have his chance to shine in a lead role next season.

Smith also has experience as a tight ends coach with the Bears and the Raiders. He served as the Chargers’ run game and offensive line coach in 2021. Now he’ll join head coach Mike McDaniel’s coaching staff, one that could be focused on a solid running game not unlike Kyle Shanahan’s system. McDaniel said he’ll call offensive plays in 2022. Under Smith, the Chargers in 2021 were graded as the league’s 11th best run-blocking unit and had the 16th highest expected points added (EPA) per rush.

Smith was the Chargers’ run game coordinator in addition to working with the offensive line last year. The 40-year-old is a riser in the coaching ranks, turning around an offensive line that was one of the league’s worst in 2020. Smith is the first candidate to interview since Mike McDaniel’s hiring. McDaniel is expected to call plays for Miami this season.