Thursday night’s loss to the Buffalo Bills was not only a blow to Miami Dolphins fans-it also placed head coach Mike McDaniel in jeopardy. Despite backing from the team’s top brass, some insiders claim patience with McDaniel could be running thin.
This marks the first time in six years that the Dolphins have opened a season 0-3. Before the arrival of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, and during head coach Brian Flores’ first year, Miami finished with a 5-11 record-a pace that defined much of the Flores era.
McDaniel’s arrival in 2022 sparked high hopes among fans, especially after two straight postseason appearances. However, the disastrous start to 2025-and troubling rumors emerging from the locker room-now loom as ominous signs for McDaniel’s tenure.
Stephen Ross’s patience is running out
According to NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport, team owner Stephen Ross“doesn’t want to fire McDaniel.” Despite complaints from fans, criticism from experts, and lackluster results, Ross has continued to support his coach. But that stance may soon change, Rapoport warned.
“There’s a caveat,” the insider said. “If fans suddenly stop showing up at the stadium, or if players stop playing for him, that could alter the situation.” Given the team’s current trajectory, either scenario seems increasingly likely.
For now, attendance at Hard Rock Stadium appears steady. However, multiple reports suggest a widening rift between McDaniel and his players.
Among the most outspoken critics is wide receiver Tyreek Hill, who demanded a trade after the 2024 season and whose frustration has been evident in this year’s games.
Numbers don’t help McDaniel
After a three-year playoff drought under Flores, McDaniel led Miami to the postseason in his first two years, posting a 9-3 record in 2022 and an 11-6 record in 2023. Although the Dolphins were eliminated in the first round both times, optimism remained high.
But things unraveled in 2024, when Miami stumbled to an 8-9 finish and missed the playoffs. Now, with another shaky start, McDaniel faces mounting pressure.
The schedule ahead may offer some relief, but whether McDaniel can turn things around remains to be seen. For his sake, he’ll need to-fast.
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