McDaniel has been an assistant coach to Mike and Kyle Shanahan since 2005, when he began his NFL coaching career as an intern for the Denver Broncos.
Mike McDaniel parents was hired this year by the Dolphins to manage their offensive play-calling and coaching operations. At just 10 games into his NFL coaching career, he has already guided his offense to a 3-0 record.
Experience
McDaniel has more than 17 years of coaching experience as an offensive assistant. He’s held positions with the Houston Texans, Washington Redskins, Cleveland Browns, Atlanta Falcons and San Francisco 49ers.
His coaching career began in 2005, when he interned for the Denver Broncos under Mike Shanahan. These early experiences served as an introduction to football and he credits mentors such as Pat McPherson (Broncos quarterbacks coach) and Calhoun at Yale with helping him find his calling.
He served the San Francisco 49ers from 2017-18 as run-game coordinator, offensive coordinator in 2021 and receivers coach since 2014. His guidance was instrumental in several of their recent victories, including the NFC title game.
McDaniel was a potential successor to Brian Flores after he was fired last month. Unlike Flores, who was ruthless and serious in his coaching style, McDaniel strives for teams that are resilient and celebrate wins even when they’re not performing at their peak performance. His message: build an environment in your team where everyone feels appreciated and respected regardless of performance level
Leadership
Mike McDaniel may not be a professional football player, but his leadership abilities are undeniable. In his role as assistant coach, he has demonstrated an innate affection for teammates and an ability to motivate them through fun activities.
He has achieved this by often teasing and motivating his players on the sideline, while also demonstrating an understanding of context and appreciation for those on his team – something not often seen in the NFL.
His approach has proven successful so far in Miami, where he has guided his team through a difficult patch to three close game victories. Along the way, he created an atmosphere that the Dolphins say is driven by players themselves; encouraging them to attend players-only meetings after practices.
Coaching Style
Mike McDaniel has a distinct style when it comes to coaching. He doesn’t motivate through intimidation or fear, nor does he attempt to get players to play through pain. Instead, Mike is an inspiring coach who puts his players first and works to help them develop as individuals. It’s clear that Mike McDaniel enjoys working with his players; their success is his ultimate reward!
McDaniel was given the Dolphins job after Brian Flores was fired in 2022 due to his Belichickian style of coaching – something which made Flores unpopular among many players. It’s an 180 degree change from what Flores previously employed.
McDaniel began his tenure leading the team to a 3-0 record and earned praise for helping quarterback Tua Tagovailoa get better. But an injury suffered in Week 3 against the Buffalo Bills set off a chain reaction of events that placed both quarterback and McDaniel under intense scrutiny.
Personality
Mike McDaniel has become something of a hero among certain sections of Dolphins fandom and NFL online for his wisecracking personality, un-coachlike appearance and offensive mastery. He’s an up-and-coming coach energy who has won over players and fans alike – providing much needed relief after a month-long scandal on the team.
In his first season as head coach, he has exceeded all expectations. His team is exceptional and they are 2-0 for the first time in nearly two years!
McDaniel’s success can be attributed to his willingness to let his personality show. He’s not afraid to be goofy and enjoys the attention that comes with being a head coach.
