If the Miami Dolphins truly want to take the next step-from playoff contender to legitimate Super Bowl threat-owner Stephen Ross may be facing one of the most pivotal decisions of his tenure. And it could mean parting ways with head coach Mike McDaniel.
Now, let’s be clear: Ross likes McDaniel. That’s been evident.
McDaniel has brought creativity, energy, and a refreshing offensive identity to Miami. But as the Dolphins stare down another season that could end short of their championship aspirations, a new name has entered the conversation-one that could alter the entire trajectory of the franchise.
According to a report from Jeff Zrebiec, there’s a chance John Harbaugh could become available. If that happens, Miami has to be ready to act-and act aggressively.
Why John Harbaugh Would Be a Game-Changer for Miami
Harbaugh isn’t just another name on the coaching carousel. He’s a Super Bowl champion with a proven track record of building tough, disciplined, and resilient teams. He’s guided the Ravens through multiple eras-winning with Joe Flacco, adapting to Lamar Jackson, and consistently fielding one of the most well-coached rosters in the league.
If he’s on the market, there will be no shortage of suitors. But Miami should be at the front of the line.
This isn't the first time Ross has chased a big name. He tried for Jeff Fisher.
He flew out to California in hopes of landing Jim Harbaugh. He made a run at Peyton Manning.
Sean Payton was on the radar, too. Each time, the Dolphins came up short.
But this time feels different.
John Harbaugh isn’t tied to another job right now-not in the way other big names were when Ross came calling in the past. If his time in Baltimore is truly nearing an end-whether by firing or a mutual parting of ways-he immediately becomes the most sought-after candidate in the NFL coaching market.
What Harbaugh Would Bring to the Dolphins
Let’s talk about what Harbaugh represents. He brings a no-nonsense approach, a culture rooted in physicality and accountability, and a resume that commands instant respect in the locker room. His arrival would signal a shift from the flashy, finesse-heavy Dolphins to a team with a harder edge-one that can go toe-to-toe with the AFC’s elite in December and January.
He’s not just a coach; he’s a culture-setter. And for a franchise that’s been searching for consistency and postseason credibility for decades, that’s exactly what Miami needs.
Ross has the resources to make this happen. The Dolphins may not have the cleanest salary cap situation, but they do have draft capital and-more importantly-a deep-pocketed owner who’s never been shy about spending. If Harbaugh becomes available, Ross should be on the first flight to Baltimore with a blank check.
The Risk-and the Opportunity
Of course, there are no guarantees. Harbaugh could come to Miami and struggle.
The fit might not be perfect. But when you look at his body of work, the odds of success are far better than most.
And let’s be honest: the Dolphins haven’t had a coaching presence like this since Jimmy Johnson. That’s how long it’s been since Miami had a leader who could truly reshape the franchise from the top down.
If Ross lets this opportunity pass without making a serious push, it would go down as one of the biggest missed chances in team history-right alongside the ownership decisions that have haunted this franchise for years.
But if he gets it right? If he lands Harbaugh?
It could be the move that finally puts the Dolphins back on the map-not just as a playoff team, but as a perennial contender.