Ranking AFC East head coaches before 2024 free agency

2. Mike McDaniel

The Miami Dolphins hired Mike McDaniel in 2022, prying him away from the 49ers where he served as the offensive coordinator for one year. McDaniel made an immediate impact in Miami and helped lead the 'Fins to a 9-8 record and a playoff berth despite not having Tua Tagovailoa for a chunk of the season.

In 2023, the Dolphins got off to a red hot start and looked to be on their way to an AFC East division title. Tagovailoa remained healthy for the season, which helped Miami stay competitive and McDaniel continued to be showered with praise for how well the team was performing.

The Dolphins finished the season with an 11-6 record and their downfall was that they couldn't beat good teams. The Bills managed to catch them at the end of the season and ripped the AFC East title away from them but the 'Fins still had a respectable season.

In both of McDaniel's seasons at the helm, the Dolphins have made the playoffs. The next step is to overtake the Bills in the division and win a playoff game.