Hafley’s Defensive Scheme: Multiple Fronts for 2026

By Dolfan Radio Staff • July 2026

New Miami Dolphins head coach Jeff Hafley is bringing a modern, aggressive defensive system that emphasizes flexibility over rigid alignments. Here’s what Dolfans need to know.

Base Scheme: 4-3 with Multiple Looks

Hafley has stated the team will base out of a 4-3 (four down linemen), a shift from recent Dolphins 3-4 tendencies. However, the scheme is highly multiple.

Key Quotes from Hafley

“You might say we’re going to be a 4-3 defense, which we’ll base out of 4-3, but I like to get in the 4-3 structures and 3-4 structures all out of the same personnel groupings so I’m not subbing... Front variation is huge.”

Core Principles

• Aggressive Pass Rush: Emphasis on get-off and creating negative plays.
• Run Defense: Force runners inside with Wide-9 edges.
• Coverage: Mix of Cover-3, press-man at corners, and two-high looks.

The scheme is designed to maximize current personnel like Chop Robinson while building for the future.