Colin Cowherd Doesn’t Hold Back on Dolphins Head Coach
The Miami Dolphins may be riding a three-game winning streak and victories in four of their last five, but Fox Sports host Colin Cowherd continues to be openly critical of head coach Mike McDaniel.
During his weekly recap, Cowherd praised new Bears coach Ben Johnson and used McDaniel as a contrast. Highlighting Johnson’s no-nonsense approach, Cowherd said great coaches “don’t pander” and are willing to be tough on their players. Then, pointing at McDaniel, he added, “The friendly guy in Miami seems like a great dude, but I don’t need hugs, pandering, and kisses.”
McDaniel’s Time in Miami
The Dolphins hired McDaniel in 2022 after parting ways with Brian Flores despite back-to-back winning seasons. Miami was the only team that interviewed the former 49ers offensive coordinator, who many described as unconventional or quirky — a style traditionalists like Cowherd tend to dislike.
Still, McDaniel produced early results, guiding Miami to the playoffs in each of his first two seasons while transforming the offense. Critics were mostly quiet until the Dolphins’ 2024 losing season, their first since 2019. After a rough 1–6 start in 2025, many assumed McDaniel’s job was in jeopardy, though Miami has gone 4–1 since. With general manager Chris Grier dismissed earlier in the year, McDaniel’s long-term security remains uncertain despite no reports of imminent danger.
Cowherd’s Continued Critiques
Cowherd has a track record of going after McDaniel. After a Thursday night loss to Baltimore, he floated Lane Kiffin as a potential replacement and claimed the Dolphins lacked leadership, culture, and substance on offense, calling their production “empty calories.” He has also argued that McDaniel doesn’t hold players accountable, pointing to Miami’s high penalty totals.
Cowherd has been so dismissive that he incorrectly stated McDaniel has never reached the playoffs with Miami — forgetting that McDaniel has, in fact, led the Dolphins to the postseason twice.
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