Every head coaching hiring cycle trendy names of rising coordinators lead the list of the most sought-after head coaching candidates, and Mike McDaniel’s Miami Dolphins staff features at least one name to watch.

Dec 24, 2023; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel prepares to call a timeout during the second half against the Dallas Cowboys at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

Anthony Weaver arrives in South Beach, taking over as defensive coordinator, one year removed from helping guide the Baltimore Ravens’ defensive line to one of the more disruptive seasons the franchise has seen in recent memory.

While the 2024 season marks just Weaver’s second as an NFL defensive coordinator, having last served in the role with the Houston Texans back in 2020, the 43-year-old former defensive end’s stock is surging.

Will Anthony Weaver’s Miami Dolphins Defense Dominate NFL in 2024?

Anthony Weaver, Miami Dolphins — Photo by Robin Alam/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Pro Football Focus’ Bradley Locker compiled a list of eight coordinators across the league who could dominate the headlines during the 2024 NFL season, including Weaver.

“The Dolphins’ defense looked the part on paper for much of 2023,” Locker writes for PFF. “But injuries to Jalen Ramsey, Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips, among others, took the wind out of the team’s sails. With all on the mend in 2024 — and with Miami adding Kendall Fuller, Jordan Poyer and Chop Robinson — the Dolphins’ defense could be formidable even without Christian Wilkins.

“Weaver replaces the revered Vic Fangio in South Beach and has a plethora of experience at only 43 years old. He oversaw a Ravens defensive line that blossomed Justin Madubuike into a star, revitalized Jadeveon Clowney and gradually developed Odafe Oweh into a productive player. The former Ravens and Texans defensive end has progressively climbed the defensive coaching ranks, and if the Dolphins’ talented defense takes off this year, Weaver’s name may be circled.”

Thanks to his track record for developing elite talent in the trenches, combined with a loaded roster on the defensive side of the ball, it’s little wonder Weaver is garnering buzz as a potential future head coach, especially if the 2024 season results in the Dolphins making a lengthy postseason run.