Dolphins Routed 31-6; McDaniel's Job In Question

The Miami Dolphins were routed 31-6 by the Cleveland Browns on Oct. 19, dropping to 1-6; the offense totaled 219 yards, went 1-of-13 on third down, and QB Tua Tagovailoa threw three interceptions before being benched for rookie Quinn Ewers. Coach Mike McDaniel called trade speculation “baseless,” said the team is not shopping core players, vowed to shield the locker room from distractions and focus on coaching and personnel, and provided an injury update: everyone on the 53-man roster is expected to be available Sunday except DB Elijah Campbell, LB Tyrel Dodson is expected to clear concussion protocol, and Darren Waller and center Aaron Brewer are listed limited but expected to play. Owner Stephen Ross reportedly still backs McDaniel — who was extended through 2028 — but multiple outlets say his job remains in jeopardy and could change quickly if fan support or player confidence erodes. Observers and insiders have said scrutiny has intensified after the team’s rapid regression from the NFL’s top-scoring offense in 2023 to a struggling unit in 2025. McDaniel’s 29-29 record and two playoff exits have amplified talk of a possible midseason change.