Miami Dolphins Season Implodes Amid Tua Tagovailoa Benching, Front Office Chaos

The Miami Dolphins’ 2025 season collapsed into turmoil. Franchise quarterback Tua Tagovailoa was benched in December. Longtime General Manager Chris Grier was fired in late October.

These moves capped a year of profound dysfunction for the AFC East team. According to reports, locker room discord and poor performance defined their campaign. The organization now faces a critical offseason of rebuilding.

Key Decisions and Departures Reshape the Franchise

Tagovailoa’s benching was the most significant event. It happened after a loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. He had thrown 15 interceptions in 14 starts before losing his job.

His massive contract now poses a major salary cap problem. The team may absorb a $100 million hit to move on from him. This decision came after years of building the offense around his talents.

Grier’s departure ended a two-decade tenure with the Dolphins. The team announced the move one day after a bad loss to Baltimore. Miami had only three winning seasons during his time as general manager.

Star receiver Tyreek Hill’s season ended with a leg injury in Week 4. His future with the team is also uncertain due to a huge 2025 cap number. The Dolphins also traded key players like Jalen Ramsey and Jonnu Smith to Pittsburgh.

Broader Impact and a Lone Bright Spot

The series of missteps left the team unprepared for the season. Defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver criticized piecing the defense together too late. This was after the team endured two separate three-game losing streaks early on.

Despite the chaos, running back De’Von Achane emerged as a star. He set a career high with over 1,350 rushing yards. Achane’s dominance provided the lone consistent bright spot for the offense.

Linebacker Jordyn Brooks became an unexpected leader. He led the entire NFL in total tackles. Coach Mike McDaniel praised his relentless, businesslike approach as a pillar for the team.

The Miami Dolphins enter the offseason in a state of complete flux. Major questions surround the quarterback position and the entire roster. The fallout from this implosive season will define the franchise for years.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: Why was Tua Tagovailoa benched?

He was benched due to inconsistent play and turnovers. Tagovailoa threw 15 interceptions in 14 starts before the decision. His performance did not match his large contract.

Q2: What led to General Manager Chris Grier’s firing?

The team’s lack of sustained success was the main cause. Miami had only three winning seasons under his leadership. A midseason loss to Baltimore preceded the immediate announcement.

Q3: Who was the Dolphins’ best player in 2025?

Running back De’Von Achane was the clear standout. He rushed for over 1,350 yards and led the league in yards per carry. Achane carried the offense after Tyreek Hill’s injury.

Q4: What was the major locker room issue?

Public grievances created a rift. Tyreek Hill had previously requested a trade. Tua Tagovailoa later called out teammates for being late to meetings.

Q5: Is Mike McDaniel safe as head coach?

His future is now uncertain and may depend on the new GM. Owner Stephen Ross had earlier announced McDaniel would return. The season’s collapse could prompt a reevaluation.

Q6: What is the biggest challenge for 2026?

Managing the salary cap is the primary hurdle. Moving on from Tagovailoa and Hill carries enormous financial penalties. The new GM must navigate this while rebuilding the roster.

 

Trusted Sources

Information compiled from authoritative sports news reports and official team announcements. This simulated analysis is based on common NFL reporting structures for educational purposes.