The Miami Dolphins are heading into a massive season in 2025. There are plenty of issues with the Dolphins' roster. Combined with the lackluster finishes in recent years, the Dolphins need to have a bounce-back season.
With such a season on the horizon, it's no surprise that Damien Parson of Bleacher Report wrote that Mike McDaniel is on the hot seat in 2025. While not the hottest seat in the league, he's not safe from firing this year.
"After three years, McDaniels enters a pivotal 2025 NFL season." Parson writes. "He holds a record of 28-23 coming off his first losing season. McDaniels has eclipsed ten wins once, in 2023. He has made the playoffs twice but remains winless in the postseason."
A huge reason why the Dolphins' recent seasons have been frustrating is the lack of postseason success. Despite having solid regular seasons, the Dolphins seemingly can't catch a break in the playoffs.
Whether playing in frigid temperatures or losing Tua Tagovailoa for the playoffs, the Dolphins haven't been able to go into the postseason with confidence.
While not McDaniel's fault, the Tagovailoa injuries are a massive part in his job security being in question. Former NFL players called for Tagovailoa to retire due to the nature of his head injuries. It's become a real issue in Miami.
Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel talks to reporters before practice during mandatory minicamp at Hard Rock Stadium.
Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel talks to reporters before practice during mandatory minicamp at Hard Rock Stadium.
Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
But that isn't the only issue plaguing the team. McDaniel's teams have had chemistry issues and have dealt with drama over the years. But this year, culture has been a major talking point for McDaniel.
While the players claim things have changed, it won't be certain until the season begins. If it has, McDaniel will have a better chance of keeping his job. But if the culture hasn't changed, the Dolphins could be in for a rough 2025 season.
McDaniel is on the hot seat for his lackluster performances year after year. While the Dolphins win games, nothing has come from those wins in the playoffs.
Parsons called McDaniel's seat "mildly hot," not scorching hot. While McDaniel has had disappointing playoff performances, his regular-season body of work is good enough to keep around.
McDaniel might need to win a playoff game to stick around in Miami. Otherwise, ownership might pull the plug on what has at times seemed like a great hiring.