If the Dolphins hire Kris Richard or Brian Flores as their next coach, it won't be because they're defensive gurus, secondary or linebacker whisperers or play-calling geniuses.

It will be because general manager Chris Grier and owner Stephen Ross believe Richard or Flores is the best coach to teach players and lead the entire organization.

The Dolphins need a coach. They don't need another person to recommend or sign off on free agent or draft acquisitions. They don't need a glorified coordinator who speaks about the other side of the ball with disconnect. They need a head football coach with a balance of skills who delivers big-picture confidence.

And this week, some people involved and connected to the search are indicating the Dolphins believe Richard and Flores possess the right qualities.

They're both coaching in playoff games this weekend. And Darren Rizzi is still going to get his chance to pitch for the job, on Friday. (Eric Bieniemy of the Chiefs and Dennis Allen of the Saints have also interviewed).

But it would surprise few in NFL circles if Richard (the Pete Carroll discipline) or Flores (the Bill Belichick disciple) is Miami's choice.

And in a day in which the league-wide trend has shifted toward young, charismatic offensive play-callers, we can get on board with going against the grain. Trying something different, after years of mediocrity and failure, is more inspiring than frightening.

Richard and Flores are intelligent, energetic and tough. And yes, they are minority candidates, and yes, if Grier successfully taps into an underrepresented pool of NFL talent he should be commended. Ross wants Grier to approach things a bit differently. And hiring a black coach would provide not only the coach a great opportunity, but the franchise one, too.

Some suggest Miami's job is unappealing, compared to some or all of five or more jobs that have already been filled. And while it has its drawbacks, we can understand why a coach like Richard or Flores would be intrigued. They are not walking into a situation that is as dire as some portray it.

With owner Stephen Ross publicly proclaiming an organizational reset with a longer-term view, there should be less pressure and more breathing room for the coach to gain traction. This coach should be able to set things up and establish their own vision without worrying about if they're fighting for their job each day.

There are talented young players, notably Laremy Tunsil and Xavien Howard (left tackle and shutdown corner are two of the most important positions on any roster) and Kenyan Drake and Minkah Fitzpatrick. And Miami is committed to drafting a highly-touted quarterback in the next two years.

Ross will not be outspent on free agents, when the time comes to strike (unlikely this summer). Ross has gone into his own pockets to make Hard Rock Stadium a world-class facility. There is a brand-new practice facility in Miami Gardens on the way.

We can always talk about the amazing weather and lack of state income tax in Florida. But more important? That Grier has connections in every corner of the NFL. He is well-respected as a talent evaluator and has an easy-going demeanor that should be a pleasure to work with.

It seems unlikely either of these coaches, whether they call the plays or not, would be ultimately responsible for a defense that allows the most yards in franchise history, as occurred last season. Regardless of injuries and seeming positional misfits, the 2018 Miami defense did underachieve.

It seems Richard or Flores would set a tone and structure that would benefit youngsters like Howard, Fitzpatrick, Jerome Baker, Raekwon McMillan, Davon Godchaux, Vincent Taylor, Codrea Tankersley, and maybe even Charles Harris. We do suspect Richard and Flores would set the template for offense and defense with a more aggressive approach on defense and more physical one on offense. These are two areas in which Miami could use some tweaks.

But this truly isn't about improving one side of the ball. It's not about fixing any one player, such as quarterback. It's about fixing what's wrong with the entire team. It's about connecting with the entire team, while also holding individuals accountable. It's about being a leader and a teacher. And bringing solutions, not excuses.

Richard is 39 and Flores is 37, but watching videos in which they coach and conduct interviews, it becomes clear they are mature, demanding and clear communicators.

Former Seahawks defensive back Richard Sherman raves about Richard, his former coach.

"Attention to detail, and he does a great job managing our personalities," Sherman said, according to The Daily Herald in Everett, Wash.

Former Patriots linebacker David Harris was one of many players to endorse Flores as a future head coach.

"Great overall knowledge of the game, and for a guy to be as young as he is, he knows a lot about football, understands how everything operates and communicates it well," Harris said, according to the Boston Globe.

The Dolphins need a head football coach. Not a play-calling genius. Not a guru. Not a whisperer.

They need a man to lead men and Richard or Flores would do it well.

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