Miami’s Breaking Point: Why Stephen Ross Must Reshape the Dolphins to End the Mediocrity

Stephen Ross faces a harsh truth: a change is needed after the 2024 Miami Dolphins season. Injuries may not have derailed their playoff hopes as many would like to believe. Instead, the root of their struggles lies in poor decision-making at the top.

The Dolphins’ collapse didn’t start with their Thanksgiving loss to the Packers—it began long before that. This isn’t a knee-jerk reaction to another disheartening defeat. It’s a reflection of a bigger problem. Numbers don’t lie, and while other teams can boast standout statistics like quarterback ratings, rushing yards, or dominant defenses, the most important metric in football remains wins and losses.

And here’s the troubling stat: in their last 16 games against teams with winning records, the Dolphins are 1-15. This staggering figure underscores why they can’t win the AFC East or make a meaningful playoff run. Miami has become a team that dominates weaker opponents but crumbles against legitimate contenders, perpetuating a narrative of being “soft.”

Take their 70-point explosion against a struggling Broncos team as an example. It was a flashy, record-setting moment, but it rings hollow when the same team is now hoping for Denver to falter just to sneak into the postseason.

Blaming head coach Mike McDaniel might feel convenient, but it misses the mark. His offensive system is tailored to this roster, and firing him would disrupt the foundation already in place. However, parting ways with General Manager Chris Grier makes sense. A new GM could take the time to evaluate McDaniel, quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, and the rest of the roster while shaping the long-term vision of the franchise.

For Miami to shed its reputation as a paper tiger and compete with the NFL’s best, Ross must make bold decisions. Change isn’t easy, but it’s necessary.