Dolphins and GM Chris Grier Part Ways as Miami Reaches Breaking Point in 2–7 Season

The Miami Dolphins’ turbulent 2025 campaign reached a new low Friday as the team announced the departure of longtime general manager Chris Grier, ending his nearly three-decade tenure with the organization. The decision came less than a day after a 28–6 loss to the Baltimore Ravens dropped Miami to 2–7, further dimming playoff hopes in a season that began with lofty expectations.

Team owner Stephen Ross described the move as a “mutual decision” between the franchise and Grier, emphasizing that the change was necessary to move the organization forward. “It became clear to both of us that change could not wait,” Ross said in a statement. “We must improve — in 2025, 2026 and beyond — and it needs to start right now.”

Champ Kelly, previously an assistant in Miami’s personnel department, will serve as the team’s interim general manager for the remainder of the season. The Dolphins will begin an immediate search for Grier’s permanent replacement, though no timeline has been set for the hiring process.

While Grier exits, head coach Mike McDaniel will stay on, at least through the regular season. Sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter that the team still believes in McDaniel’s leadership and coaching acumen despite the team’s ongoing struggles on both sides of the ball.

1. Chris Grier’s Legacy and Miami’s Playoff Struggles

Grier’s departure marks the end of an era that spanned 26 years, including nine as general manager. During his tenure, the Dolphins posted five winning seasons and reached the playoffs three times but failed to secure a single postseason victory — a drought that has now stretched to 25 years, the longest active streak in the NFL. Despite his reputation as a respected talent evaluator, Grier’s record was mixed. He oversaw major trades, including the acquisition of star wideout Tyreek Hill, but also drew criticism for Miami’s uneven roster construction and inconsistent quarterback play. The team’s recent 2–7 start, combined with internal frustrations, ultimately forced ownership’s hand. McDaniel, who joined the Dolphins in 2022, has maintained composure amid mounting pressure. When asked Friday if Ross’s tone with him had changed during the team’s skid, McDaniel replied simply, “No.” His measured demeanor and accountability have resonated with players even as the team’s losses have piled up. Still, Miami’s offensive inconsistency and defensive lapses have left fans disillusioned. The team’s latest blowout loss to Baltimore underscored a familiar theme — strong early drives undone by turnovers, penalties, and poor execution in key moments.

2. McDaniel Stays the Course Amid Uncertainty

While Grier’s exit signals a reset in the front office, McDaniel remains focused on rallying his players. Speaking Friday morning, the head coach acknowledged the rumors surrounding potential trades but reiterated that his focus remains squarely on player development and game preparation. “This is standard,” McDaniel said. “When your record is as such, those conversations will happen. But my main focus is coaching the players.” Several Dolphins players, including wide receiver Jaylen Waddle and linebackers Jaelan Phillips and Bradley Chubb, have been mentioned in trade speculation as the NFL deadline approaches. A team source told ESPN that Miami has no plans to trade Waddle, though that position could evolve under Kelly’s interim leadership. Despite the turmoil, McDaniel continues to emphasize communication and transparency with his players. “A lot of people are flying blind; they just hear what they hear,” he said. “You have to be very direct and honest, which we’ll always be.” Players have publicly supported their coach, with safety Minkah Fitzpatrick noting, “We’re representing ourselves and this organization every time we take the field.” The Dolphins’ focus now shifts to salvaging some pride in the season’s remaining games. While the postseason may be out of reach, McDaniel has urged his players to compete with professionalism and intensity, emphasizing that every game still matters for the team’s future identity.

3. Looking Ahead: A Franchise at a Crossroads

The Dolphins’ immediate future will be guided by interim GM Champ Kelly, who faces the dual challenge of stabilizing a fractured locker room and preparing for critical roster decisions ahead of next week’s trade deadline. His ability to navigate those choices could determine how Miami approaches the offseason and its next chapter under new leadership. Meanwhile, Stephen Ross’s next hire will be pivotal. The owner, who has long sought to restore the Dolphins to perennial contention, must now balance experience and vision as he evaluates candidates capable of rebuilding trust within the organization. For McDaniel, survival beyond this season may depend on demonstrating growth amid adversity. Players insist they haven’t tuned him out, and his collaborative approach remains a source of stability in an otherwise chaotic environment. Still, the franchise’s latest overhaul underscores a difficult reality: after years of incremental progress, Miami remains mired in inconsistency. With a roster built to win now, patience is wearing thin — both within the organization and across its fan base.