Miami Dolphins players, coach, and general manager are under a lot of pressure, and expectations are low | Schad

The Miami Dolphins enter the 2025 NFL season at a crossroads. After a disappointing 8-9 record in 2024, the organization faces mounting pressure from fans, analysts, and even within its own ranks. Despite maintaining the services of head coach Mike McDaniel and general manager Chris Grier, the Dolphins have a lot to prove as they attempt to break their 24-year playoff win drought. With questions surrounding quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, key roster gaps, and financial constraints, expectations for the team remain lukewarm at best.

Tua Tagovailoa: The Franchise Quarterback Under Fire

Tua Tagovailoa, who signed a lucrative $212 million contract extension in July 2024, remains the focal point of the Dolphins’ fortunes. Despite putting up respectable numbers in past seasons, he has yet to lead Miami to a postseason victory, a glaring shortfall for a franchise eager for playoff success. His injury history also remains a concern, with multiple concussions and lower-body injuries limiting his availability.

Tagovailoa himself has acknowledged the burden of expectations, stating, “Heavy is the crown,” when asked about the pressure of leading the team. His ability to stay healthy and deliver consistent, elite-level performances will be paramount to Miami’s success in 2025. If he falters, the organization may have to reconsider its long-term commitment to him.

The McDaniel-Grier Gamble

Despite the Dolphins’ regression in 2024, team owner Stephen Ross opted for continuity by retaining head coach Mike McDaniel and general manager Chris Grier. While McDaniel has been praised for his innovative offensive schemes, discipline issues have plagued the team. The head coach himself admitted that his lenient approach may have been exploited, leading to a lack of accountability among players.

“We need to enforce a zero-tolerance approach for behaviors that undermine team culture,” McDaniel said in a press conference. “That starts with me.”

Meanwhile, Grier faces criticism for Miami’s roster construction. Although the team boasts elite talent at certain positions, gaps in the offensive line, secondary, and linebacker corps remain unaddressed. His ability to navigate the salary cap and find value in the 2025 NFL Draft will be crucial to Miami’s aspirations.

Roster Overhaul: Key Departures and Additions

Miami has been active in the offseason, making several notable moves. However, some departures have raised concerns about the team’s ability to compete at a high level.

Key Additions:

Zach Wilson (QB): Signed to a one-year, $6 million deal, Wilson serves as a backup option to Tagovailoa. Once a highly touted prospect, Wilson hopes to revitalize his career.
James Daniels (OL): A crucial addition to a struggling offensive line, Daniels brings experience and versatility.
Alexander Mattison (RB): A solid depth signing, Mattison will provide relief for the Dolphins’ backfield.
Larry Borom (OL): Acquired from Chicago, Borom adds needed depth at tackle.
Ashtyn Davis (S) & Ifeatu Melifonwu (S): While these two bring secondary experience, neither is viewed as a definitive solution to Miami’s coverage issues.

Key Departures:

Stefon Diggs & Brandin Cooks (WRs): Losing two veteran receivers weakens Miami’s passing attack.
Terron Armstead (OL, retirement potential): If he retires, Miami loses a critical piece of its offensive line.
Defensive Departures: The Dolphins lost key contributors in the secondary and defensive line, putting additional strain on an already inconsistent defense.

Offensive Line Woes Continue

One of Miami’s biggest issues in 2024 was protecting Tagovailoa. Despite adding James Daniels and Larry Borom, concerns persist, particularly at left tackle and right guard. If Terron Armstead retires, the Dolphins will be forced to rely on unproven talent or draft a replacement. Miami’s front office will need to be strategic in free agency or the draft to solidify the unit and prevent another injury-riddled season for their quarterback.

Defensive Struggles and Lack of Playmakers

Miami’s defense was inconsistent in 2024, often faltering in key moments. While Jalen Ramsey remains a top-tier cornerback, the Dolphins still lack a reliable CB2 option. Kader Kohou has shown flashes of potential, but he’s yet to prove he can handle starting responsibilities against elite receivers.

The defensive line, despite boasting talent in Zach Sieler and Benito Jones, needs reinforcements. The team will likely look to the 2025 draft for solutions, as free agency options are limited due to salary cap constraints.

Financial Constraints and Salary Cap Issues

One of the biggest hurdles for the Dolphins in 2025 is their salary cap situation. Due to major contract extensions—including Tagovailoa’s massive deal—the team has limited flexibility to make significant free-agent moves. As a result, Miami’s front office must rely on strategic draft picks and lower-cost acquisitions to fill roster gaps.

2025 NFL Draft: Make or Break?

Holding the 13th overall pick, Miami has a golden opportunity to address its most pressing needs. The consensus among analysts is that the team should focus on either the offensive line or secondary, though linebacker depth is also a priority.

Potential draft targets include:

JC Latham (OT, Alabama): A powerful lineman who could provide immediate stability.
Cooper DeJean (CB, Iowa): A playmaking defensive back who could solidify the secondary.
Jeremiah Trotter Jr. (LB, Clemson): A physical linebacker who could bolster Miami’s run defense.

Tyreek Hill Drama and Leadership Questions

Star wide receiver Tyreek Hill has been at the center of controversy this offseason. Initially, reports surfaced that Hill was unhappy in Miami and considering his options. However, he later issued a public apology to Tagovailoa and reaffirmed his commitment to the team. While Hill remains an elite playmaker, his relationship with the organization will be something to monitor as the season progresses.

The 2025 Season Schedule and Challenges

Miami’s schedule for 2025 presents a blend of tough matchups and winnable games. Key contests include:

Divisional Clashes: Miami faces Buffalo, New England, and the Jets twice each—always a tough challenge.
AFC North Opponents: Baltimore and Cincinnati at home will test Miami’s mettle.
International Game: Miami will play a home game at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid as part of the NFL International Series.
Road Tests: Facing Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Atlanta, and Indianapolis on the road will be critical for the Dolphins’ playoff hopes.

Can the Dolphins Overcome the Odds?

With so many moving parts—Tagovailoa’s health, McDaniel’s coaching adjustments, Grier’s roster moves, and financial limitations—the Dolphins face an uphill battle. While there is talent on this roster, the lingering concerns make it difficult to project Miami as a true contender.

If everything falls into place, Miami could surprise critics and make a legitimate playoff push. However, if the same issues persist—offensive line struggles, defensive lapses, and injuries—the Dolphins may find themselves stuck in mediocrity for another year.

One thing is certain: the pressure is on. Whether the Dolphins rise to the challenge or crumble under expectations will define their 2025 campaign.