Miami Dolphins fire Mike McDaniel: who could replace him?
Mike McDaniel and the Miami Dolphins have parted ways after four seasons at the helm.
Mike McDaniel is the latest major addition to the NFL managerial merry-go-round after the Miami Dolphins officially let go of the coach after four seasons in charge.
The decision to fire him comes after a dreadful 7-10 finish in the 2025 campaign and a failure to reach the playoffs for a second year in a row. And with this monster contract.
Taking over in 2022 after a successful stint as the San Francisco 49ers offensive coordinator, McDaniel quickly gave quarterback Tua Tagovailoa a new lease of life and led Miami to consecutive playoff campaigns.
However, inconsistency and various other setbacks eroded that progress, with injuries to key players and a low output from offensive and defensive players contributing to the franchise’s slide. His overall record in Miami finished just above .500.
Dolphins owner Stephen Ross said in a statement: “After careful evaluation and extensive discussions since the season ended, I have made the decision that our organization is in need of comprehensive change. I informed Mike McDaniel this morning that he has been relieved of his duties as head coach. I love Mike and want to thank him for his hard work, commitment, and the energy he brought to our organization. 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.“
Dolphins part ways with head coach Mike McDaniel. pic.twitter.com/31ZQFEhb6f
— NFL (@NFL) January 8, 2026
Who will be the new Miami Dolphins head coach?
One of the most talked-about names linked to Miami is John Harbaugh. After the Baltimore Ravens parted ways with Harbaugh after a total of 18 seasons, his availability has set off intense fireworks around the NFL.
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Multiple teams have already reached out to his representatives, including the Dolphins, and Harbaugh’s track record makes him a top candidate. It’s not a given that he will land in Miami, but he is the name at the top of the belated Christmas list for many fans.
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