Key Takeaways
- Miami Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel was fired by the team on January 8, 2026, after a four-year run with a 35-33 career mark.
- The move comes amid speculation about the team’s interest in former Baltimore Ravens coach John Harbaugh, who was fired on January 7, 2026.
- McDaniel could become a leading offensive coordinator option for several teams if he doesn’t land another head-coaching gig.
- The Dolphins’ decision to fire McDaniel was made after careful evaluation and extensive discussions since the season ended, with owner Stephen Ross citing the need for comprehensive change.
Introduction to the Situation
The Miami Dolphins’ coaching situation took a dramatic turn on January 8, 2026, when the team fired coach Mike McDaniel after a four-year run. This move came as a surprise to many, as McDaniel had seemed to be on solid ground just a few days prior. However, the team’s owner, Stephen Ross, made the decision to relieve McDaniel of his duties, citing the need for comprehensive change. McDaniel finished his tenure with the Dolphins with a 35-33 career mark, including a 7-10 finish in the 2025 season.
Background on McDaniel’s Tenure
McDaniel was hired by the Dolphins in February 2022, despite not having landed any interviews for other head-coaching openings at the time. He was known for his blunt yet jovial demeanor, which drew a sharp contrast with former Dolphins coach Brian Flores. One of the defining traits of McDaniel’s early tenure was his emphasis on speed and creativity, particularly in his deployment of wide receiver Tyreek Hill, whom the team acquired in a trade with the Kansas City Chiefs in March 2022. McDaniel’s play-calling acumen and innovative "cheat motion" were widely praised, and the team quickly established itself as one of the league’s most dangerous attacks.
The 2023 Season and Beyond
The 2023 season was a notable one for the Dolphins, as they tied for the second-most points scored in a single game with a 70-20 rout of the Denver Broncos. The team finished the season with the No. 1-ranked offense in yards per game, but bowed out of the playoffs in a wild-card round loss to the Chiefs. However, the team’s success was short-lived, as a tight salary-cap situation prompted the Dolphins to undergo a shift in the ensuing offseason. The team lost several key players to free agency, including defensive tackle Christian Wilkins, offensive guard Robert Hunt, and linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa also missed six games in 2024 due to injuries, which contributed to the team’s decline.
The Decision to Fire McDaniel
The decision to fire McDaniel was made after careful evaluation and extensive discussions since the season ended. Owner Stephen Ross cited the need for comprehensive change, thanking McDaniel for his hard work and commitment to the team. McDaniel’s passion for the game and his players was evident every day, and Ross wished him and his family the best moving forward. The move comes amid speculation about the team’s interest in former Baltimore Ravens coach John Harbaugh, who was fired on January 7, 2026. However, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the Dolphins have not contacted Harbaugh or made inquiries into other coaching candidates.
What’s Next for McDaniel and the Dolphins
McDaniel could become a leading offensive coordinator option for several teams if he doesn’t land another head-coaching gig. His experience and play-calling acumen make him an attractive candidate for teams looking to improve their offense. As for the Dolphins, the team will likely begin a search for a new head coach, with Harbaugh potentially being a top candidate. However, the team’s ownership has not made any official announcements about their coaching search, and it remains to be seen who will lead the team in the future. One thing is certain, however: the Dolphins are looking for comprehensive change, and the firing of McDaniel is just the beginning.