McDaniels Fired by Dolphins After 7–10 Season, NFL Future Unclear

Hannah Price

January 8, 2026

Mike McDaniel on the sideline wearing a Miami Dolphins hoodie after being fired following a 7–10 NFL season.

Miami, United States
News Desk | Sport

Mike McDaniel was fired by the Miami Dolphins following the conclusion of the 2025 NFL season, according to media reports from ESPN, NBC Sports, and Bleacher Report. The decision came after Miami finished with a 7–10 record and missed the playoffs, falling short of organizational expectations despite entering the season viewed as a contender in the AFC.

The move was confirmed by multiple outlets, including ESPN, which cited league sources saying the Dolphins’ front office and ownership opted for a coaching change after evaluating the team’s overall performance, player development, and consistency across the season. Miami struggled to sustain momentum amid injuries and uneven results on both sides of the ball.

Mike McDaniel on the sideline wearing a Miami Dolphins hoodie after being fired following a 7–10 NFL season.

McDaniel, who was in his third season as head coach, rose quickly through the NFL ranks after serving as an offensive coordinator and assistant under the Shanahan coaching tree. Known for his creative offensive scheme and analytical approach, he helped modernize Miami’s offense, but the Dolphins’ production declined in key stretches during the 2025 campaign, contributing to mounting pressure on the coaching staff.

According to NBC Sports, the Dolphins entered the season with playoff expectations, making the 7–10 finish particularly disappointing for team leadership. Offensive inconsistency, defensive lapses, and the inability to secure critical wins against conference opponents were cited as factors in the decision.

Reaction around the NFL was swift. Analysts noted that McDaniel remains highly regarded for his offensive philosophy and quarterback development, leading to immediate discussion about potential landing spots elsewhere in the league. Bleacher Report reported that several teams could view McDaniel as a strong candidate for offensive coordinator roles or future head coaching opportunities as the NFL coaching carousel accelerates.

Financial terms of McDaniel’s contract were not publicly detailed, though league precedent suggests he will continue to be compensated under the remaining structure of his deal. Miami is now expected to begin a comprehensive search for its next head coach, focusing on candidates who can stabilize the roster and maximize the team’s competitive window.

As for McDaniel, league sources indicated his name is likely to remain prominent in upcoming coaching discussions, given his background, experience, and reputation as an innovative offensive mind.

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