Breaking News: Stephen Ross says that Joe Philbin will return in 2015

Following the Miami Dolphins victory against the Minnesota Vikings, Stephen Ross told reporters that Joe Philbin will be returning as head coach of the Miami Dolphins in 2015. This comes following a week of speculation in regards to the job status of Philbin after losing to the New England Patriots in Week 15 and the Baltimore Ravens in Week 14.

On Sunday against the Vikings, the Dolphins came out and won 37-35 in a back and forth game in all four quarters. The Dolphins blocked a punt for a safety to seal the victory. The Dolphins were eliminated from the playoffs after the Pittsburgh Steelers won so they will end their season next week at home against the New York Jets. After the victory against the Vikings, Philbin is 23-24 as head coach of the Dolphins and 7-7 in December. However, Ross believes that Philbin is the right guy for the job.

“Here’s a Christmas present. You don’t have to ask me anymore. He has one year left on contract and is coming back. I believe in [Philbin]. We're building something great. He's the right guy for this team. Patience is a virtue and I'm expecting big things next year," Ross said.

Ross said that he made the decision on Philbin prior to today's game and that he had not spoken to Jim Harbaugh at all about the possibility of becoming the next head coach of the Dolphins. 

This also means that general manager Dennis Hickey will return for another season and will work to build on what they started this past year. It is not known whether or not Philbin will retain defensive coordinator Kevin Coyle. Bill Lazor, offensive coordinator, is expected to return to the team.

Ryan Tannehill said that he is excited that Philbin will be back for another season. 

"We believe in coach and the program he had. I'm happy he's coming back. That's exciting news for me and the team."

Joe Philbin, of course is grateful for another season as the head coach of the Miami Dolphins. The following is via Armando Salguero of the Miami Herald. 

"This is where I want to be the head coach. Three years ago when I interviewed I came to work to Steve Ross. He's the owner. He's shown a lot of support to me over the years, through let's face it, some difficult times. It's a privilege to be the head coach and I want to do the things I said when I came here -- consistently compete for championships.

"We're not going to do that this year and that's disappointing but the faith that Steve has in me, I feel fortunate every day that I work with great people in the organization. I'm very happy that he's supported me as often and as consistently as he has -- and he really has."

This story was written by Matthew Cannata. Follow him on Twitter: @PhinManiacs. 

---