The Miami Dolphins’ season just took a big hit, even though the team hasn’t even entered training camp yet. The Dolphins announced this morning that quarterbacks coach and assistant head coach Jim Caldwell will be taking a leave of absence in 2019 due to health issues. And while Caldwell is still expected to remain active with the team as a consultant, his departure from the day to day operations is a loss that will be felt in the Dolphins’ efforts to develop quarterback Josh Rosen.
Of course, the impact on the field is secondary to Caldwell’s heath and he’s obviously doing the right thing in stepping aside so that he can properly address his well-being.
“I will be stepping back due to some medical complications that require my full attention,” said Caldwell in a statement to the Dolphins. “I want to thank Stephen Ross, Chris Grier, Coach Flores and the rest of the organization for the support they have given me and my family.”
A well respected and experienced member of the NFL coaching fraternity, Caldwell has helped provide a positive influence on both Peyton Manning, Joe Flacco and Matthew Stafford throughout his tenure with the Colts, Ravens and Lions, respectively. Caldwell’s experience as a coach has led him to several Super Bowl appearances — a loss to the Saints in 2009 and a victory over the 49ers as the Ravens’ offensive coordinator in 2013.
Assistant quarterbacks coach Jerry Schuplinski is expected to step into Caldwell’s role as quarterbacks coach, according to NFL.com’s Ian Rapoport.
