The Miami Dolphins are entering a critical stretch that could determine the fate of head coach Mike McDaniel.
Following two early-season losses, the pressure is mounting on a coach who has drawn both praise and criticism for his innovative but player-friendly approach.
According to insider reports, the Dolphins’ management may use an upcoming break in the schedule to evaluate McDaniel’s long-term role with the franchise.
The Dolphins face the Buffalo Bills on Thursday, followed by an 11-day hiatus before their matchup against the New York Jets.
The pause offers ownership a rare window to assess whether McDaniel’s vision aligns with the team’s lofty expectations.
Miami entered the 2025 season with significant financial commitments, ranking ninth in cash-over-cap spending according to Over the Cap, a level intended to secure playoff success and sustainable competitiveness.
Instead, back-to-back defeats, 33-8 against the Indianapolis Colts and 33-27 to the New England Patriots, have raised red flags about the team’s trajectory.
Since his 2022 hire, McDaniel has led the Dolphins through three distinct campaigns. His debut season ended with a 9-8 record and a playoff berth, showcasing an offense praised for its creativity.
In 2023, Miami improved to 11-6, yet fell short in the Wild Card round. Last season, injuries and defensive struggles contributed to an 8-9 finish, leaving questions about the team’s direction unresolved.
“I wasn’t spending my time considering what the fans were doing at all,” McDaniel said, addressing criticism from supporters calling for his dismissal.
“Fans want their team to win, so I figure if we win football games, I don’t think it’s personal. They want to win, and so do I.”
Could McDaniel return to the 49ers?
Amid uncertainty in Miami, speculation has emerged linking McDaniel to a return to the San Francisco 49ers.
McDaniel spent over a decade under Kyle Shanahan, earning recognition as one of the most trusted and knowledgeable assistants in the NFL, and has earned praise from Kyle Juszczyk and George Kittle.
Despite the rumors, the Dolphins’ upcoming games against Buffalo and New York will serve as a litmus test.
How the team performs during this stretch could define not only McDaniel’s tenure but also Miami’s strategy for the foreseeable future.
Ownership faces a delicate decision: stick with a coach whose approach has yielded mixed results or pursue a change that could reset the franchise’s direction.
Team’s support amidst adversity
While McDaniel faces external criticism, his players have expressed unwavering support. Linebacker Chop Robinson emphasized the importance of personal accountability, stating, “It’s really on us. We’ve got to get it better.”
Offensive tackle Patrick Paul and linebacker Tyrel Dodson also voiced confidence in McDaniel’s leadership, highlighting his belief in and inspiration for the team.
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