The Miami Dolphins have extended head coach Mike McDaniel’s contract for three more years, ensuring his stay in South Florida through the 2028 season. McDaniel, who is entering his third season with the team, has made a significant impact by leading the Dolphins to the playoffs in each of his first two years, a feat only two other coaches in franchise history, Dave Wannstedt and Don Shula, have accomplished.
Under McDaniel’s leadership, Miami has also developed a top-10 offense for the first time in 26 years, even leading the league in total yards in 2023.
Despite these achievements, the Dolphins have not won a playoff game since 1999, and they lost two AFC wild-card games under McDaniel’s guidance.
However, sources indicate that McDaniel’s strong working relationships with key figures in the organization, including general manager Chris Grier and owner Steve Ross, have bolstered confidence that he is the right coach to end the team’s playoff drought. His collaboration with the front office is seen as a crucial factor in the team’s decision to extend his contract.
McDaniel’s influence has been particularly evident in the development of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. Under McDaniel’s coaching, Tagovailoa has delivered the best seasons of his career, including leading the NFL in passing yards last season. This improvement has solidified Tagovailoa’s role as the team’s franchise quarterback, and his recent four-year contract extension aligns with McDaniel’s new deal, tying both their futures to the Dolphins through 2028.
McDaniel was the only candidate the Dolphins interviewed during the 2022 offseason for their head coaching position, and he has since received widespread praise for his football acumen and his ability to connect with players and staff.
Owner Steve Ross highlighted these qualities as key reasons for McDaniel’s hiring, noting that he was impressed by McDaniel’s intelligence and unique personality. Ross emphasized that these attributes have made McDaniel a beloved figure within the organization, contributing to the team’s decision to invest in him for the long term.
In summary, the Dolphins’ decision to extend McDaniel’s contract reflects their confidence in his ability to continue developing the team and ending their long playoff win drought.
His strong relationships within the organization, combined with his success in elevating the team’s offense and developing Tagovailoa, have made him a central figure in the Dolphins’ future plans. The team’s commitment to McDaniel underscores their belief that he is the right coach to lead the Dolphins to greater success in the coming years.
