Miami Dolphins have decided to part ways with head coach Mike McDaniel, ending his four-year tenure with the team. The decision came after a disappointing 7-10 season that saw the Dolphins miss the playoffs for the second consecutive year. Dolphins owner Stephen Ross stated that the organization needed a comprehensive change, leading to the dismissal of McDaniel.
During his time with the Dolphins, McDaniel guided the team to a 35-33 record, making the playoffs in his first two seasons but failing to advance beyond the first round. The team’s playoff hopes were dashed this season with a loss to Pittsburgh in Week 15, extending their playoff win drought to 25 years.
McDaniel, known for his creative football mind and passion for the game, expressed his disappointment in not achieving better results on the field. The decision to part ways with McDaniel came after a disjointed finish to the season, including the benching of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, which was the final straw for Ross.
The 42-year-old coach arrived in Miami in 2022 after a successful stint as San Francisco’s offensive coordinator. Initially viewed as the creative force to lead the Dolphins to success, McDaniel’s early success with the team showed promise. However, a sharp drop-off in performance in recent seasons led to the decision to make a change at the head coaching position.
Despite the challenges faced by the team, McDaniel, along with general manager Chris Grier, had addressed culture issues and aimed to build team camaraderie for a successful 2025 season. However, a disappointing start and end to the season highlighted the need for change within the organization.
The Dolphins will now begin the search for a new head coach to lead the team forward and strive for success in the upcoming seasons. The decision to part ways with McDaniel marks the start of a new chapter for the Miami Dolphins as they look to rebuild and return to winning ways in the NFL.