The Miami Dolphins enter the 2026 offseason facing major questions after a difficult 2025–26 campaign. Much of the attention has focused on head coach Mike McDaniel, whose future has come under scrutiny as several high-profile coaches become available across the league.
Uncertainty around the general manager position has added to the tension. Miami is still searching for a long-term executive leader, making organisational alignment a central issue. Any decision on the coaching staff will likely depend on how the new front office views McDaniel and his vision.
Before becoming a head coach, McDaniel built a wide-ranging résumé across professional football. He began his NFL career with the Denver Broncos in 2005 before working with the Houston Texans. He later played in the United Football League and returned to the NFL with Washington, then joined the Cleveland Browns and Atlanta Falcons.
McDaniel’s profile rose significantly during his tenure with the San Francisco 49ers, where his offensive work under Kyle Shanahan drew league-wide praise. That reputation helped him land the Dolphins job, where expectations quickly escalated after a playoff appearance in his first season.
A Disappointing 2025 Campaign
Despite his experience, Miami struggled to deliver consistent results in 2025. The offence faltered in key moments, and the Dolphins exited the playoff race early. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa remained central to the discussion, as McDaniel continued efforts to build around him under difficult circumstances.
The Dolphins have been in touch with John Harbaugh, per @JosinaAnderson.
Mike McDaniel is still Miami’s HC 😬 pic.twitter.com/zajHPSn9Ug
— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) January 7, 2026Speculation intensified after reports surfaced that Miami had contact with John Harbaugh, who recently parted ways with the Baltimore Ravens. The timing fueled questions about McDaniel’s security, but league insiders have since pushed back on those assumptions.
ESPN reporter Jeremy Fowler said there is no expectation of an immediate coaching change. Fowler noted that without a general manager in place, forecasting Miami’s long-term leadership structure remains difficult. He added that several GM candidates come from the 49ers’ front office, where McDaniel is well known and respected.
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Fowler also reported that McDaniel continues to have support within key areas of the organisation. However, he said the incoming general manager’s perspective could eventually influence the head coach’s future. Defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver is also drawing interest elsewhere and is scheduled to interview with the Falcons, adding another layer to Miami’s offseason decisions.
Yikes: Dolphins HC Mike McDaniel has gone viral for not being able to form complete sentences at his press conference when asked about the team's starting QB for next season.
"Um, uh, uh, ughmm, uh, um, uh, uh."
Many Miami fans are concerned for him…🫣 pic.twitter.com/1urv8OhYsP
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) January 6, 2026Across four seasons in Miami, McDaniel holds a 35–33 record. His innovative offensive ideas generated early optimism, but sustained success has remained elusive. Injuries, inconsistency, and questions about leadership have all contributed to uneven outcomes.
Owner Stephen Ross appears prepared to give McDaniel another opportunity to steady the franchise. With major roster moves and front-office decisions approaching, the 2026 season is shaping up as a defining chapter for both McDaniel and the Dolphins.
For now, McDaniel remains in place. Whether that stability leads to long-term success will depend on how Miami resolves its leadership puzzle in the months ahead.
