As the new NFL season approaches, the Miami Dolphins find themselves under the spotlight, and not just for what’s happening on the field. Head coach Mike McDaniel may be heading into a make-or-break year, with some insiders suggesting his job could be on the line.
While McDaniel is known as a “players’ coach” who connects well with his roster, that same strength is now being questioned. Critics argue that his laid-back approach may be holding the team back, especially in terms of toughness and accountability. Bleacher Report’s Damian Parson notes that McDaniel’s offence hasn’t been among the most physical in the league, and there are whispers he may be “too friendly” with players, possibly affecting the team’s culture and competitiveness.
Although McDaniel still has support from team owner Stephen Ross, that could change if the Dolphins struggle this season. In that case, not only McDaniel but also general manager Chris Grier could find their positions in serious jeopardy.
Meanwhile, the Dolphins’ tight end group has seen major changes this offseason. In a surprising move, the team traded away tight end Jonnu Smith and star cornerback Jalen Ramsey to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Smith later revealed that the trade was mostly due to failed contract talks.
“They told me they couldn’t do it,” Smith said about Miami’s offer. “I had to go where I felt appreciated — where I was valued both financially and professionally. Pittsburgh gave me that.”
The trade was an emotional blow for Smith, who had just bought a house in Miami and hoped to retire there.
The Dolphins didn’t waste any time filling the gap, acquiring tight end Darren Waller the very next day. But even with Waller on board, the team isn’t done making moves. Free agent tight end Noah Fant, recently released by the Seahawks, visited the Dolphins on Monday, according to reporter Jordan Schultz.
If Fant signs with Miami, he’s expected to become the starting tight end, potentially pushing Waller into a backup role. Fant brings steady hands and a strong track record, and many see him as a more consistent option than Waller, whose role could shift depending on how things unfold during training camp.
Between front-office uncertainty and an evolving offensive lineup, it’s shaping up to be a defining season for the Miami Dolphins.
