The Miami Dolphins are coming off a disappointing season, while the New England Patriots are coming off a strong performance in Mike Vrabel’s first season as head coach.
However, the Dolphins are not expected to fire Mike McDaniel after missing the playoffs for two straight seasons and watching the Patriots thrive following coaching changes, NFL insider Ian Rapoport reported on Sunday.
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“Our understanding is that, barring something unexpected, McDaniel is expected to be back next season,” Rapoport said Sunday. “This guy does have the support of owner Stephen Ross. Remember, he extended him and the two are close. The Dolphins do want McDaniel to succeed and believe he can do that.”
McDaniel signed a contract extension prior to the 2024 season, keeping him as the Dolphins head coach through 2028. However, after a strong start to his tenure, his side have failed to make any noise over the past two years.
The AFC East is a highly competitive division. The Patriots and Buffalo Bills both look like contenders, and the Dolphins haven’t always looked like a team that can compete with them. Despite a poor season, the Dolphins have looked like a solid team at times, and that seems to be enough for the team to keep selecting McDaniel.
The Patriots, meanwhile, changed their head coach last offseason and are reaping the benefits. The Patriots can clinch a playoff spot with a win on Sunday, while the Dolphins are already thinking about next season. It must be difficult to watch an opponent succeed under a new head coach and stick with McDaniel, but that’s what the Dolphins are doing.
The Dolphins may believe McDaniel is being held back by his quarterback play. Rapoport noted that the team is not expected to bring back Tua Tagovailoa. He also served as a backup for the Dolphins against the Cincinnati Bengals.
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