The job security of Mike McDaniel has remained a talking point for much of the 2025 season. The late stages of the campaign have seen improved play in the case of the Dolphins, though, pointing to stability on the sidelines for next year. 
McDaniel is in the group of coaches likely to be safe as ‘Black Monday’ approaches, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports (video link). Conflicting reports have emerged over recent months on the matter of McDaniel’s future, with Schefter among those cautioning a final decision has yet to be made. His latest update confirms that is still the case, with front office discussions still to be had after the season finale.
When general manager Chris Grier‘s lengthy Miami tenure came to an end midway through the season, it was immediately learned McDaniel would remain in place for the remainder of 2025. The Dolphins have once again fallen short of the playoffs with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa being benched. Keeping him atop the depth chart was seen at one point as a central factor in McDaniel’s job security given the success shared by that pair in the past. Strong play elsewhere on the roster has nevertheless helped the case for stability on the sidelines.
The Dolphins have won five of their last seven games entering Sunday’s action. To perhaps little surprise, then, CBS Sports’ Jonathan Jones also points to McDaniel receiving a fifth season at the helm. The 42-year-old sports an overall record of 35-32 at this point, and he has led the Dolphins to a pair of postseason appearances (both of which ended with losses in the wild-card round). Presuming he remains in place for 2026, how McDaniel fits into a reshaped structure in Miami will be interesting to see.
The search for Grier’s replacement is ongoing, and broadcaster Troy Aikman is among those playing a role. Once a new general manager is in place – either through an outside hire or interim Champ Kelly receiving the gig on a full-time basis – attention will turn to the matter of potential changes in the organizational pecking order. Grier previously outranked McDaniel as well as senior VP of football and business administration Brandon Shore while reporting to owner Stephen Ross. A new setup is being considered which would see Shore, the new GM and McDaniel each report directly to Ross. Outkick’s Armando Salguero reports nothing has been finalized yet on that front, and that will presumably remain the case until a decision is made to fill the general manager spot.
A strong fit with McDaniel is not viewed as Miami’s top priority during the team’s GM search, one which Jones notes includes sports executive (and Ross’ son-in-law) Daniel Sillman. That factor suggests a McDaniel dismissal could still receive consideration, although at this point such a move would come as a surprise.
Yes it’s not perfect but considering some of the names he’s had on his team he should be going better that being 50:50 wins and losses.
Injuries don’t help either but I don’t think he’s a good head coach
We will see … on a different note, Garrett sets the sack record with help from Joe Burrow.
How was Burrow’s laydown any different than Favre’s for Strahan? Cleveland at least ends their season with a win. Can the Dolphins?
How was it different? Have you watched both?
Yes, I did … both looked like laydowns. Thats why I asked the question.
Very different to the eye. Favre gave himself up and smiled. Burrow was compromised by pressure from another player and Garrett finished him off.
On both plays, didnt look like the pass rushers were blocked to me. Rct was right though, the play just flowed right to Strahan and Favre just gave up quicker.
@Brian: Strahan’s sack looked almost pre-determined. They called the play to Strahan’s side, didn’t block him, and Favre was ready to drop before he even turned around. I’m a Giants fan who hates Garrett but Garrett’s was much more organic looking.
They don’t look like they will be better than Pats or Bills with Allen playing. They might as well just let him coach out contract.
They should let the new GM decide that! You think?!?!?!
Why?
McDaniel is a top 5 offensive coordinator but a bottom tier head coach. The Dolphins know if they fire him then he will immediately be scooped up.
They need to fire him. He’s not a good head coach. Let it go let it go
he’s a football genius.. but I’m not sure he’s a “leader”… and I’m a massive dolphins fan… if he can learn to lead.. he could be an all time great coach.. if he can’t.. he’s Adam Gase 2.0