The Miami Dolphins have made a significant change to their coaching staff, dismissing head coach Mike McDaniel after a disappointing 7-10 season. This decision was announced by the team on Thursday, following an evaluation of the franchise’s performance throughout the year.
Dolphins Part Ways with Coach McDaniel
Owner Stephen Ross met with McDaniel earlier in the week to discuss the season’s outcomes. Following their discussion and upon further reflection, Ross decided it was time to implement comprehensive changes within the organization.
In a statement, Ross expressed gratitude towards McDaniel for his dedication and energy throughout his tenure, acknowledging his creative approach to football. “I wish him and his family the best moving forward,” Ross added.
Search for New Leadership
The Dolphins now turn their focus to hiring a new head coach. They will first select a general manager to lead this search, with the new GM expected to be appointed shortly.
- Miami is currently interviewing several candidates for the general manager position.
- Among those considered are interim GM Champ Kelly and others from notable franchises.
The team’s recent performance has not met expectations. After making the playoffs in 2022 and 2023, this season marks the Dolphins’ second consecutive losing record under McDaniel’s leadership.
Challenges and Future Outlook
McDaniel joined the Dolphins in 2022, marking his debut as a head coach after a successful run with the San Francisco 49ers. His time in Miami saw the Dolphins rank sixth in total offense in 2022, but their performance declined significantly in 2024 and 2025.
Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who led the NFL in passing yards in 2023, faced challenges this season, missing several games and witnessing a decline in team performance. Following a benching in Week 15, the team shifted gears by starting rookie Quinn Ewers for the final games.
Moving forward, the Dolphins face critical decisions regarding their roster, particularly concerning Tagovailoa, who has a substantial cap hit of $56.4 million for 2026.
Coaching History
McDaniel’s firing marks a broader trend within the organization. He was the Dolphins’ third head coach in ten seasons, following Brian Flores and Adam Gase. Historically, the team has struggled to maintain coaching stability, with no coach lasting four full seasons since 2003.
The franchise now looks ahead to a new era under fresh leadership, aiming to restore competitiveness and aim for a successful season in 2026.
