The Miami Dolphins announced today that they have parted ways with head coach Mike McDaniel following a 7-10 finish to the 2025 season. Dolphins Chairman and Owner Stephen M. Ross stated that the organization is pursuing a comprehensive change in leadership.
Despite playoff appearances in 2022 and 2023 under McDaniel, the Dolphins continued to underperform, failing to secure a playoff win since 2000—the longest active drought in the NFL. CBS12 reported that this season’s results fell short of expectations, with critics highlighting the team’s inconsistent performance against top-tier opponents and questioning certain game-management decisions.
The Dolphins are also searching for a new general manager following Chris Grier’s firing in October 2025, Local 10 reports. A decision on the position is expected tomorroq, with four candidates under consideration. The leadership changes highlight the challenges Miami faces heading into another crucial offseason.
The team’s challenges extend beyond coaching and the front office. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, whose development was guided by McDaniel, appears to be at a crossroads with the franchise. Following Miami’s playoff elimination and his benching, Tagovailoa expressed openness to a fresh start elsewhere, as reported by Local 10. With his $54 million guaranteed salary this year and the potential cap savings from releasing star wide receiver Tyreek Hill after June 1, the Dolphins may pursue significant roster changes.
McDaniel finished his four-season tenure with a 35-33 overall record.
