The Miami Dolphins officially pulled the plug on head coach Mike McDaniel’s era on Thursday, firing the head coach after another season that failed to live up to the franchise’s early momentum.
The move landed abruptly. Just days earlier, McDaniel told reporters he expected to take part in interviews for the team’s next general manager, signaling confidence in his standing. That tone shifted after a Tuesday meeting with owner Stephen Ross, who ultimately decided the organization needed a broader reset.
“After careful evaluation and extensive discussions since the season ended, I have made the decision that our organization is in need of comprehensive change,” Ross said in a statement. “I love Mike and want to thank him for his hard work, commitment, and the energy he brought to our organization. Mike is an incredibly creative football mind whose passion for the game and his players was evident every day. I wish him and his family the best moving forward.”
Miami plans to hire a new general manager before beginning its head coaching search, with sources telling ESPN’s Jeff Darlington that a GM decision could come as soon as Friday. Four candidates have already completed or are scheduled for in-person interviews.
McDaniel exits after a 7-10 finish and two straight losing seasons following playoff appearances in 2022 and 2023. While his offense produced historic numbers early, Miami consistently struggled against winning teams, posting a 4-17 record in those matchups during his tenure.
The future of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa also hangs in the balance. After a late-season benching, Tagovailoa admitted Monday that a fresh start elsewhere in 2026 “would be dope.”
With leadership roles open and cap questions looming, the Dolphins are staring at one of the most consequential offseasons in recent franchise history.
