Miami Dolphins chief executive officer Tom Garfinkel has denied suggestions that head coach Joe Philbin will be relieved of his duties once the franchise appoints a new general manager.
The Dolphins parted ways with Jeff Ireland on Tuesday after six years with him in the role, and plans are already underway to select and interview possible replacements.
However, Garfinkel denied that this would mean the end for Philbin, who has been in charge for the past two seasons.
According to the Palm Beach Post, Garfinkel said: "[Owner] Stephen Ross has a lot of confidence in Joe Philbin. He's our head coach. so yes, we have a lot of confidence in him and his role.
"As for the new GM, in my conversations with Steve, we're looking for someone with a proven track record of evaluating talent - a football person. That's going to be the first criteria. We want someone with a lot of intellect, a collaborative team player. Someone who is both creative and open-minded."
The Dolphins ended the current campaign with an 8-8 record, finishing in third position in the AFC East.
