### Miami Dolphins Face Offseason Decisions: McDaniel's Future and Quarterback Dilemma The Miami Dolphins are entering a critical offseason following a disappointing 7-10 season. Head coach Mike McDaniel's position appears secure for now, but he acknowledges the need for improved results to maintain his role. McDaniel will be involved in the search for a new general manager (GM) and has confirmed that a quarterback competition will take place to identify the team's starter for the 2026 season. The Dolphins' management is under pressure to make significant roster and front office changes to enhance their performance moving forward [https://apnews.com/article/dolphins-wrapup-mcdaniel-tagovailoa-302d0f38e18fe606d2282fd37d93417e][https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/miami-dolphins/news/dolphins-keep-mike-mcdaniel-quarterback-competition-coming-tua-spot/465304f42b2bb38e32d9f291]. ### Key Offseason Focus Areas for the Dolphins 1. **Coaching Stability**: - Mike McDaniel's job security is contingent on future performance, as he was hired to lead the team to playoff success and potentially a Super Bowl [https://apnews.com/article/dolphins-wrapup-mcdaniel-tagovailoa-302d0f38e18fe606d2282fd37d93417e]. - Despite speculation about his future, including potential interest from the Cleveland Browns, McDaniel remains focused on his current role [https://bluewaterhealthyliving.com/news/national-news/ohio/browns-named-potential-landing-spot-for-dolphins-hc-mike-mcdaniel]. 2. **General Manager Search**: - McDaniel will play a role in selecting a new GM, which is crucial for shaping the team's future direction and roster decisions [https://www.newsday.com/sports/football/dolphins-wrapup-mcdaniel-tagovailoa-l20009]. 3. **Quarterback Competition**: - The Dolphins will hold a competition to determine their starting quarterback for the upcoming season, indicating uncertainty about Tua Tagovailoa's future with the team [https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/miami-dolphins/news/dolphins-keep-mike-mcdaniel-quarterback-competition-coming-tua-spot/465304f42b2bb38e32d9f291]. - This decision is critical as the team looks to improve its offensive performance and overall competitiveness [https://www.palmbeachpost.com/story/sports/nfl/dolphins/2026/01/05/miami-dolphins-mike-mcdaniel-on-2025-the-season-was-a-failure/88034732007]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Season Performance**: The Dolphins finished the 2025 season with a 7-10 record, prompting a reevaluation of their coaching and player strategies [https://www.palmbeachpost.com/story/sports/nfl/dolphins/2026/01/05/miami-dolphins-mike-mcdaniel-on-2025-the-season-was-a-failure/88034732007]. - **Coaching Speculation**: Reports suggest that McDaniel could be a candidate for other head coaching positions, particularly with the Browns, if the Dolphins decide to part ways with him [https://www.cleveland.com/browns/2025/12/dolphins-coach-mike-mcdaniel-will-be-a-candidate-for-the-browns-head-coach-vacancy-if-both-teams-part-ways-report-says.html]. ### Conclusion: Navigating a Pivotal Offseason In summary, the Miami Dolphins are at a crossroads as they head into the offseason. **Key decisions regarding coaching stability, the search for a new GM, and the quarterback competition will shape the team's future.** 1. **Coaching Stability**: McDaniel's future hinges on improved performance. 2. **GM Search**: His involvement in selecting a new GM is crucial for team direction. 3. **Quarterback Competition**: A pivotal decision that could redefine the team's offensive strategy. The Dolphins must act decisively to enhance their competitiveness in the upcoming season [https://apnews.com/article/dolphins-wrapup-mcdaniel-tagovailoa-302d0f38e18fe606d2282fd37d93417e][https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/miami-dolphins/news/dolphins-keep-mike-mcdaniel-quarterback-competition-coming-tua-spot/465304f42b2bb38e32d9f291].