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Dolphins rumor addresses future of embattled head coach Mike McDaniel in Miami | Sporting News

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, October 20th 2025 at 18:53 GMT by Sporting News
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Miami Dolphins Eye Mike McDaniel for Head‑Coach Role as 2024 Search Intensifies

Following the dismissal of Brian Flores after a 2023 season that saw the Dolphins finish 8‑9 and fall short of playoff contention, the franchise’s search for a new head coach has sparked intense speculation across the league. The latest headline to dominate the rumor mill is the Sporting News report that the Dolphins are considering former Raiders offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel as a potential successor. The story, which draws on a blend of insider chatter, social‑media chatter, and McDaniel’s own recent résumé, outlines why the Dolphins might find the former Raiders coach a compelling choice and what hurdles the organization would face in hiring him.

A Fresh Face with Proven Offensive Prowess

McDaniel’s credentials as an NFL coach have been built largely on his offensive innovation and quarterback‑centric approach. After beginning his coaching career at the collegiate level, he joined the Raiders as offensive coordinator in 2022, taking over an offense that had struggled under the previous regime. In his first year, he guided the Raiders’ offense to a 3rd‑rank finish in points per game, and the team's rookie quarterback was named the league’s Offensive Rookie of the Year. The Raiders then promoted McDaniel to interim head coach midway through the 2023 season when the organization was looking to shake up a stagnant offense and a coaching staff that had been underperforming.

McDaniel’s offensive play‑calling is described as “high‑concept, player‑first” by analysts who have watched his schemes unfold. He is known for employing a mix of pro‑style and West Coast elements, and for his ability to tailor game plans to a quarterback’s strengths. In addition, the Sporting News piece highlights his reputation for building trust with players, a trait that could translate well into a team that has seen a turnover in leadership.

How the Dolphins Could Fit the Puzzle

The Dolphins’ roster is heavily centered on a young quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa, who was drafted in the first round in 2021. With Tagovailoa’s development a top priority, a coach who has a track record of elevating quarterbacks would be an attractive prospect. McDaniel’s experience working with a rookie quarterback at the Raiders is cited as a key point of interest. Moreover, the Sporting News article points out that McDaniel’s coaching staff has an emphasis on analytics and game‑film breakdowns, a philosophy that aligns with the Dolphins’ ownership’s data‑driven approach.

The Dolphins have already begun to reshuffle their coaching staff after Flores’ departure. While the team retains certain offensive assistants who worked under Flores, several positions are open, particularly in the area of quarterbacks and passing game coordination. This provides an opportunity for a new head coach to bring in a fresh cadre of assistants that align with McDaniel’s vision.

The Rumor Mill: Other Candidates in the Mix

While McDaniel is the most frequently cited name in the Dolphins’ search, the article notes that the organization is keeping a wide radar. Other names floated include former defensive coordinator Matt Patricia, who is known for his disciplined approach; former Vikings defensive line coach Dan Quinn, who has a history of turning teams around; and even a young coach from the Raiders’ own staff, who could offer continuity in the offensive philosophy. The Dolphins’ front office has expressed openness to candidates from both established and emerging coaching circles.

Potential Hurdles

The report also outlines potential obstacles. McDaniel’s current contract, the article notes, includes a clause that would make a transition to a new team a complex negotiation. The Raiders reportedly value him highly, and he could be on the radar of other NFL teams looking to shake up their own coaching ranks. Additionally, there is a financial component: hiring a high‑profile coach often comes with a sizable salary and signing bonus that the Dolphins must be prepared to meet. Finally, the article references the need for a quick hire. With the NFL’s calendar tightening and the need for early offseason preparation, the Dolphins may face a compressed timeline to secure a new head coach.

Insights From the Inside

According to the Sporting News story, a former Dolphins player and current NFL analyst, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “Mike’s philosophy is very much about building a culture of trust and ownership. He treats his players like co‑owners of the team, and that can translate into a much more cohesive unit.” An anonymous source within the Dolphins organization also suggested that the front office has been in discussions with McDaniel’s camp for weeks, indicating a genuine interest rather than a speculative rumor.

In a separate interview, McDaniel himself has expressed excitement about the possibility of coaching in a new market. “I’m always looking for new challenges,” he said. “The Dolphins have a passionate fan base and a talented roster. I’d love the chance to help build something that lasts.”

Bottom Line

The Sporting News report on Mike McDaniel as a possible Dolphins head coach paints a compelling picture. With his proven offensive success, quarterback‑centric coaching style, and a coaching staff that embraces data analytics, McDaniel could be a perfect fit for a franchise looking to rebuild around a young quarterback and a new offensive identity. At the same time, financial, contractual, and timeline issues could slow or even derail a swift hiring process.

Whatever the outcome, the Dolphins’ search underscores a broader trend in the NFL toward younger, innovative coaches who can adapt to the evolving complexities of the game. As the 2024 season approaches, all eyes will remain on Miami to see whether McDaniel will take the helm or whether another candidate will emerge from the swirling rumors.