Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network is reporting that Miami Dolphins first-year offensive coordinator Frank Smith is one of the hot names of assistant coaches under the age of 45 who will most likely get interviews for a head coaching position once the regular season ends. Pelissero writes,

Dolphins OC Frank Smith, 41: Highly regarded in league circles, Smith is in his 13th season as an NFL coach, mostly working with tight ends and offensive line. His close relationships with players and role in developing the likes of Raiders tight end Darren Waller and Chargers left tackle Rashawn Slater speak to his strong personal skills. It’s no surprise he, along with head coach and play-caller Mike McDaniel, have Miami utilizing all its weapons at a high level. Smith’s heavily involved in game planning and with an offensive line that keeps playing better and better.

Smith is a first-year offensive coordinator and is a big part of Miami’s offensive line turnaround. While he isn’t calling plays for Miami we know that isn’t something that would hold him back from becoming a head coach as Mike McDaniel never called plays before becoming the head coach in Miami. The trend in the NFL is to promote young assistant coaches to head coach. It is a trend we have seen of late in Miami, Minnesota, Cleveland, Denver, and various other organizations. Expect that trend to continue and for Frank Smith to be in the mix for a head coaching position.

More on this story as it develops.

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