The Miami Dolphins took their time, waited for the dust to settle (and the ink to dry on my Black Monday article), and then pulled the trigger on the Mike McDaniel reign in South Beach, bringing an end to his four-year run in charge of the team.

“After careful evaluation and extensive discussions since the season ended, I have made the decision that our organisation is in need of comprehensive change,” said Dolphins owner Stephen Ross. “I informed Mike McDaniel that he has been relieved of his duties as head coach.”

The Dolphins made the playoffs in 2022 and 2023, ranking 1st in yards and 2nd in points scored in 2023. But over the last two seasons, the Dolphins went a combined 15-19 and missed the postseason both times. The offense also petered out somewhat, finishing 18th and 26th in yards.

The comprehensive change that Ross spoke of included the hiring of a new GM, with the Dolphins having fired Chris Grier during the 2025 season. His replacement was unveiled on Friday, with the team naming former Green Bay Packers VP of player personnel Jon-Eric Sullivan.

Sullivan’s Green Bay links make for an intriguing list of potential candidates to replace McDaniel. The Dolphins could look to speak with current Packers’ assistants Jeff Hafley, who has called the defense for the last two seasons, or offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich. But there are also former Packers coaches who could draw some interest, from former Super Bowl-winning coach Mike McCarthy and current Jaguars DC Anthony Campanile, who was the Packers’ linebackers coach in 2024. Campanile has overseen a dramatic improvement in the Jaguars, with the team improving from 31st in yards allowed in 2024 to 11th last season.

As for McDaniel, he has already drawn interest since leaving the Dolphins. The Lions are reportedly keen on making him their offensive coordinator, with McDaniel’s old boss, Dan Quinn, also in the market for an offensive playcaller with the Commanders. With reports also linking McDaniel with the head coaching gig with the Cleveland Browns, he should have no shortage of options regarding his next job.