The Miami Dolphins organization has announced leadership changes following the conclusion of the 2025 NFL season, with both Head Coach Mike McDaniel and General Manager Chris Grier departing their roles. The team is now seeking new leadership for both positions.
Head Coach Mike McDaniel's Departure
Stephen Ross, owner of the Miami Dolphins, terminated Head Coach Mike McDaniel's employment, effective Thursday. McDaniel, 42, will not return for the 2026 season. His departure followed a review by Ross after the 2025 season, with Ross stating he opted for "comprehensive change" within the organization.
McDaniel was appointed head coach in 2022 and concludes his tenure with an overall record of 35 wins and 33 losses. His season records with the Dolphins were:
- 2022: 9-8, resulting in a playoff appearance.
- 2023: 11-6, leading to a first-round playoff elimination.
- 2024: 8-9.
- 2025: 7-10.
In a public statement regarding McDaniel's departure, Mr. Ross said:
"I love Mike and want to thank him for his hard work, commitment, and the energy he brought to our organisation. 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."
General Manager Chris Grier's Dismissal
General Manager Chris Grier was dismissed by owner Stephen Ross mid-season during the 2025 campaign. This decision occurred after the team began the 2025 season with a 1-6 record over their initial seven games.
Future Leadership and Team Outlook
With the departures of both the Head Coach and General Manager, the Miami Dolphins organization is positioned to appoint new leadership for both roles. Decisions regarding the quarterback position, specifically concerning Tua Tagovailoa, are anticipated to be among the initial priorities for the incoming leadership.
ESPN has reported that John Harbaugh, whose 18-year term as head coach of the Baltimore Ravens recently concluded after the team failed to qualify for the playoffs, has family ties to Stephen Ross. However, ESPN also reported that the Dolphins have not yet initiated contact with Harbaugh, and the decision to remove McDaniel was independent of Harbaugh's availability.