The Miami Dolphins officially entered the NFL’s growing coaching carousel after firing head coach Mike McDaniel on Thursday. Team owner Stephen Ross said the decision came after a detailed evaluation of the season and concluded that the organization needed “comprehensive change.” Despite acknowledging McDaniel’s creativity, passion, and dedication, Ross believed the team had reached a point where new leadership was necessary to move forward.
McDaniel leaves the Dolphins with a 35–33 record over four seasons. Miami reached the playoffs in 2022 and 2023 but failed to win a postseason game, and the past two seasons fell short of expectations. Known for his innovative offensive mind and distinctive personality, McDaniel was respected around the league, but Miami’s inability to take the next step ultimately cost him his job.
Dolphins Face Uncertain Future As League-Wide Coaching Shakeup Signals Major Organizational Change
McDaniel’s departure adds to a period of instability for Miami, especially with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s future now in question. After being benched for the final games of the season, Tagovailoa indicated he may be open to a fresh start elsewhere. With Miami now searching for a new coach, the franchise faces critical decisions that could reshape its direction for years to come.
Mike McDaniel (NFL)Miami became the eighth NFL team to begin a head coaching search, highlighting a league-wide shakeup following disappointing seasons. Earlier in the year, the Tennessee Titans and New York Giants had already dismissed their head coaches. As teams look to retool, the NFL is seeing one of its most dramatic coaching turnovers in recent memory.
Major NFL Franchises Overhaul Leadership After Disappointing Seasons And Postseason Failures Across The League
Several high-profile firings followed the end of the regular season. The Baltimore Ravens let go of longtime head coach John Harbaugh after 18 seasons, despite his Super Bowl victory and franchise-record success. The Arizona Cardinals fired Jonathan Gannon after a disastrous 15-loss stretch over two seasons. Meanwhile, the Las Vegas Raiders dismissed 74-year-old Pete Carroll after just one year, following a 3–14 campaign that left them with the top pick in the upcoming draft.
The Cleveland Browns parted ways with Kevin Stefanski after six seasons, despite his history of playoff success and two Coach of the Year awards, following another losing year. The Atlanta Falcons also made sweeping changes by firing head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot, even after finishing 8–9. Together, these moves underline how urgently NFL franchises are seeking new leadership to spark improvement and restore competitiveness.
