The Miami Dolphins are making moves to solidify their future by extending the contract of head coach Mike McDaniel through the 2028 season. This news was confirmed by CBS Sports lead NFL insider Jonathan Jones, who reported that the terms of the contract extension have not been disclosed.
McDaniel joined the Dolphins in 2022 after spending five years on the coaching staff of the San Francisco 49ers. In his first two seasons as a head coach, he has led the team to a 20-14 record, with two playoff appearances but falling short in the opening round both times. This achievement marked the first back-to-back playoff appearances for the Dolphins since 2000 and 2001.
If McDaniel completes two more seasons with the Dolphins, he will become the first coach since Dave Wannstedt (2000-2003) to finish four full seasons with the team. Wannstedt resigned as head coach after a poor start in 2004.
Since McDaniel took over, the Dolphins have boasted a high-powered offense, ranking sixth in total yards in 2022 and moving up to first in 2023. In addition, the team ranked 11th in total points in 2022 and improved to second in 2023. McDaniel’s innovative offensive schemes have become the envy of the league, with other teams taking cues from his creativity. With playmakers like Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, Raheem Mostert, and De’Von Achane, along with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, the Dolphins offense has been a force to be reckoned with.
Despite their offensive success, the Dolphins have struggled with injuries, particularly in the trenches. These injuries have hampered the team’s ability to run the ball effectively in short-yardage situations, leading to a one-dimensional offense late in the season. In their wild-card round loss to the Chiefs last season, the Dolphins managed just seven points, with Tagovailoa struggling to find his groove.
Nevertheless, the Dolphins have shown improvement under McDaniel’s leadership, with the organization valuing his innovative approach and style of leadership. The extension for McDaniel, along with long-term deals for players like Tagovailoa, Hill, and Waddle, signals a commitment to continuity and stability within the team. While playoff success is the ultimate goal, the Dolphins are on the right track under McDaniel’s guidance.