Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel did not confirm his future with the team, but hinted at his return.
Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel revealed some major news on his future following his post-mortem end-of-season press conference.
During the nearly 35-minute-long affair, McDaniel discussed a lot, including whether or not he will be back with the Dolphins for a fifth season. Despite not confirming his return, he hinted at it.
On Monday, reports came in from prominent NFL insider Ian Rapoport that McDaniel would be returning to the organization as the head coach. However, McDaniel himself would not confirm that the report is true.
When McDaniel was asked if the reports of his return were true, he answered in the usual quippy manner.
"My understanding is I am the coach of the Miami Dolphins, until told otherwise. I'm not leaning on your NFL Network source, but I think the biggest thing is that it's so important in this job to know the job itself is enough to worry about if it's yours. That's not part of the formula," McDaniel said.
The Dolphins coach then transitioned into offering some big self-awareness, saying everyone in the organization is "not happy with the result."
McDaniel spoke in length about the 7-10 season, even being so brazen as calling it "a failure."
Despite not admitting outright that he would be back, McDaniel did indicate he would be involved in the search for the next general manager.
"I'm gonna be part of the process. Beyond that, the main objective and what everyone is counting on is that we have a cohesive crew of people who are working in the same direction. I am happy to support all of that. It's not my decision to make, nor do I think it's an intelligent way to go about business," McDaniel said.
Admitting to being part of the general manager search does seem to be the biggest hint that he will return in 2026 as the head coach. McDaniel also indicated that he spoke to owner Stephen Ross after the loss on Sunday, and revealed they will meet again.
"Yeah, I've spoken with Mr. Ross and realistically we are getting together later in the week to discuss what needs to be discussed. We both share the sentiment that we're not where we want to be. In this business you need to have a plan and a plan of action to improve that play. I think those discussions are very important and healthy and the fanbase is counting on that to occur. We're not just dismissing this season ... we need to improve this football team now and set forth a plan to do that," McDaniel said.
Despite not coming outright and saying so, it does sound like McDaniel will be back as the head coach of the Dolphins. The new general manager might think differently, but signs continue to point to McDaniel's return.