Mike McDaniel’s Position with Dolphins Uncertain
There’s a sense that Mike McDaniel might not be entirely secure in his role as head coach of the Dolphins. Reports have emerged that the Miami franchise is, well, “in contact” with former Ravens coach John Harbaugh, as noted by NFL Insider Josina Anderson.
Anderson previously indicated that Stephen Ross, the owner of the Dolphins, has a close affinity for Harbaugh, who won a Super Bowl as a head coach.
This interest comes after an ESPN update stating that seven teams have already reached out to Harbaugh following his departure from Baltimore after 18 seasons. Currently, there are six teams seeking coaches aside from the Ravens: the Giants, Raiders, Titans, Cardinals, Falcons, and Browns. This suggests any team with an existing coach might be considering a switch, which makes the Dolphins part of the conversation.
However, the Miami Herald contradicted Anderson’s report, asserting that the Dolphins have, in fact, had “no contact or involvement in any way with John Harbaugh.”
This year, there have been mixed signals regarding McDaniel’s future. Just this past weekend, there were whispers that his job status could be shifting. While Miami didn’t let him go on Black Monday, that doesn’t necessarily guarantee he will be coaching in 2026. As McDaniel himself stated recently, “It is my understanding that I am the coach of the Miami Dolphins until I am told otherwise.”
It does seem like the franchise might be contemplating a full overhaul, with players like quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and wide receiver Tyreek Hill potentially playing their last games with the team. Speculation exists that Miami could part ways with McDaniel and recruit Harbaugh to lead this new direction.
If we consider Ross’s past decisions, there’s a notable history regarding coaching changes. He once connected with Jim Harbaugh when he transitioned from Stanford to NFL coaching, even though Tony Sparano was the established coach then. Ross ended up extending Sparano’s contract but later apologized when Jim joined the 49ers, resulting in Sparano being released after just 13 games that season. Reflecting on that situation, Ross admitted, “I shouldn’t have talked to my coach until I decided I needed to change.”
This current scenario could mirror Ross’s previous experience, as Harbaugh is available while McDaniel’s job hangs in the balance. While Miami offers an enticing location and potential for free-agent signings, uncertainties around the quarterback situation and broader roster issues make the franchise less appealing than it might initially seem.
