The Miami Dolphins are only two weeks into the 2025 NFL season, but the franchise is already surrounded by questions about the futures of head coach Mike McDaniel and general manager Chris Grier.
After a 0-2 start filled with mistakes, defensive breakdowns, and poor execution, both leaders are facing mounting backlash as the team prepares for a pivotal Week 3 showdown against the Buffalo Bills.
Mike McDaniel’s Hot Seat Status
McDaniel was named the 11th head coach in Dolphins history on February 7, 2022. Now in his fourth season, McDaniel’s track record includes significant achievements. He guided Miami to back-to-back playoff appearances in 2022 and 2023, the franchise’s first such run since 2000–01.
In doing so, he became just the third coach in Dolphins history to make the postseason in his first two years. McDaniel arrived at Highmark Stadium today, all suited up. It looks like he has a plan this time!
🎥 Mike McDaniel arriving at Highmark Stadium today (@MiamiDolphins) #PhinsUp pic.twitter.com/Sy4L8kME1l
— FinsXtra (@FinsXtra) September 18, 2025
But early in 2025, the narrative has flipped. The Dolphins are winless, their defense is surrendering 33 points per game, and quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has already thrown three interceptions. Miami ranks last in the league in turnover differential (-4) and has struggled with late play calls, simplistic game plans, and communication breakdowns.
McDaniel’s lone victory over the Buffalo Bills came in Miami’s sweltering September heat, but otherwise, Josh Allen has dominated him. Allen is 13-2 against Miami, with six straight wins entering Thursday Night Football. Another primetime flop could push McDaniel’s job security to the brink.
I’m told it’s too early to consider a HC change from Dolphins HC Mike McDaniel even with loss today.
Players told me they have frustration & concern but no panic or quit on McDaniel at this stage.
More for @nflnetwork @NFLGameDay including a surprise star leader this week: pic.twitter.com/TJxQIRas2v
— Cameron Wolfe (@CameronWolfe) September 18, 2025
Still, insiders caution it’s premature to talk about firing McDaniel. NFL Network reports the Dolphins are not considering a coaching change even with a loss to the Buffalo Bills. Players have reportedly expressed frustration with execution but also emphasized there is “no panic or quit” on McDaniel’s leadership.
Chris Grier Under Pressure Too
General manager Grier is also feeling the heat. Grier has been with the Dolphins since 2000 and has served as GM since 2016, overseeing countless roster decisions. While the team has made the playoffs under his watch, the lack of consistent results and glaring defensive deficiencies are being questioned more than ever. A recent tweet on Grier was posted on X:
“Chris Grier became the Dolphins GM in 2016. In a decade, he still has not: •Built a competent roster •Won the AFC East •Won a playoff game Stephen Ross, you are 85 years old. If you want to see the Dolphins have any post season success, then it’s time to let him go.”
The Dolphins’ roster construction has left holes that opposing offenses continue to exploit. Despite heavy draft capital and free agent spending, Miami’s defense has collapsed in 2025. Combined with Tagovailoa’s uneven play and the absence of reliable depth, many around the league wonder if it’s time for the team to move on from both Grier and McDaniel as part of a broader reset.
What’s at Stake Financially
McDaniel is under contract through at least 2026, with team-friendly guarantees typical of coaching deals. Firing him this early would cost ownership millions, but it would not be crippling if the team believes a fresh start is necessary. Grier’s deal details are less public, but as a long-time executive, his contract is believed to extend beyond the current season.
The financial implications are important, but history shows that when teams spiral, ownership prioritizes results over sunk costs. With a national audience watching on Thursday night, Ross will be under pressure to show fans he still expects a winning product.
Both Mike McDaniel and Chris Grier are at a crossroads. McDaniel’s first two years brought promise, but the Dolphins’ 0-2 start and dysfunction have caused serious doubt about the team’s direction. If Miami falters again against Buffalo, the calls for sweeping change may grow too loud for ownership to ignore.
