Miami Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel emphasized that he is not preoccupied with his job security despite the team’s 31-6 loss to the Cleveland Browns, which dropped the Dolphins to a 1-6 record. Speaking after the game, McDaniel stated that worrying about his position would be a disservice to the organization, players, and coaching staff. He insisted that his focus remains solely on doing his job to the best of his ability.
Dolphins’ Mistakes Mount, McDaniel Considers Personnel Changes, Emphasizes Immediate Improvement Needed
The Dolphins’ loss highlighted mounting issues, including 11 penalties for 103 yards and four turnovers, with three interceptions from quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and a fumble by Dee Eskridge. McDaniel acknowledged that player frustration from the difficult season contributed to the poor performance. He took responsibility alongside his staff and players, noting that no one’s performance was without fault and emphasizing the need for immediate improvement.
Mike McDaniel (NFL)McDaniel hinted that personnel adjustments could occur ahead of the Dolphins’ Week 8 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons. He stressed that players negatively impacting the team might be reassessed and that he himself must coach better. While Tagovailoa was benched in the fourth quarter for rookie Quinn Ewers, McDaniel did not indicate a permanent quarterback change but left all options, including style-of-play adjustments, open moving forward.
Dolphins Struggle on Offense, Tagovailoa Underperforms, Yet Locker Room Remains United
The Dolphins’ offensive execution was notably poor, with players lining up incorrectly and slowing down pre-snap processes. Tagovailoa completed just 12 of 23 passes for 100 yards and three interceptions, resulting in a career-low passer rating of 24.1. He admitted his performance this season has been below his own standards, highlighting the challenge of balancing leadership with execution.
Despite the team’s 1-6 start, linebacker Bradley Chubb expressed confidence in the locker room’s unity and the potential to turn the season around. He emphasized the importance of facing challenges head-on and making immediate changes to improve. McDaniel and his team face a crucial period as they attempt to reverse the Dolphins’ worst start since 2021.
