Why the Dolphins Fired Chris Grier First and Who Could Replace Him

The Miami Dolphins have officially parted ways with general manager Chris Grier after years of inconsistent results. Owner Stephen Ross made the move on Friday, signaling the start of a major organizational reset as the team aims to rebuild its football identity and break decades of mediocrity.

Head coach Mike McDaniel will remain in his position through the remainder of the 2025 season, but the front office overhaul suggests that bigger changes could follow once a new general manager is in place. The decision comes a day after Miami’s blowout loss to the Baltimore Ravens—a game that highlighted deep flaws in both roster construction and overall execution.

Inside the Decision: Why the Dolphins Fired Chris Grier

Chris Grier had been part of the Dolphins organization since 2000 and took over as general manager in 2016. Under his leadership, Miami cycled through several head coaches, missed repeatedly on quarterback selections, and failed to achieve postseason success. The Dolphins remain the only NFL team without a playoff win since 2000.

According to multiple reports, owner Stephen Ross wanted to prevent another draft cycle from being guided by the same management that built Miami’s uneven roster. The move gives the franchise time to find new leadership before free agency and the 2026 NFL Draft. Sources close to the team said Ross was also mindful of maintaining stability during the remaining games, particularly with an upcoming international matchup against the Washington Commanders in Madrid.

McDaniel’s job security was not immediately threatened. The Dolphins reportedly value his leadership and the culture he’s built, despite recent frustrations. However, most league insiders expect the incoming general manager to have full authority to evaluate the coaching staff after the season ends.

The Next Phase: Possible GM Replacements

The Dolphins are expected to conduct an extensive search, with several top candidates already emerging from around the league. Among them are:

• Ian Cunningham, Assistant GM, Chicago Bears
• Alec Halaby, Assistant GM, Philadelphia Eagles
• Adam Berry, VP of Football Operations and Strategy, Philadelphia Eagles
• Josh Williams, Director of Scouting and Football Operations, San Francisco 49ers
• Chad Alexander, Assistant GM, Los Angeles Chargers
• Brandon Brown, Assistant GM, New York Giants
• Terrance Gray, Assistant GM, Buffalo Bills
• Jon-Eric Sullivan, VP of Player Personnel, Green Bay Packers
• Mike Greenberg, Assistant GM, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
• Former GMs Jon Robinson (Titans) and Dave Caldwell (Jaguars)

Ross is reportedly prioritizing a candidate with a proven record in both roster construction and long-term player development. The next GM will likely have authority over key football operations and the opportunity to select a new head coach if McDaniel’s tenure ends after the season.

What the Move Means for Miami’s Future

For the Dolphins, the firing of Grier marks the beginning of an overdue overhaul. The franchise’s biggest challenge has been organizational alignment—rotating through coaches and executives without a unified vision. By replacing Grier first, Ross is giving the next general manager the chance to build from the top down, ideally forming a sustainable football structure rather than short-term patches.

Miami’s playoff drought has become a defining frustration for fans. Ross’s decision to act before the offseason suggests he recognizes the urgency to restore confidence and reshape the front office before another season slips away. As the Dolphins prepare for their final stretch, all eyes are on who takes the reins next—and whether this new direction can finally lift Miami out of two decades of stagnation.

Chris Grier’s departure marks the end of an era, but for the Dolphins, it may finally be the first real step toward a long-term fix.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why did the Dolphins fire Chris Grier?

Stephen Ross wanted a fresh direction after years of inconsistent drafting, poor quarterback development, and no playoff wins since 2000.

Q2: Who will replace Chris Grier as Dolphins GM?

Miami is expected to target experienced front-office candidates such as Ian Cunningham (Bears), Alec Halaby (Eagles), and Jon Robinson (former Titans GM).

Q3: Is Mike McDaniel still the head coach?

Yes. McDaniel will coach the Dolphins for the rest of the season, though the new general manager may decide on his long-term future.

Q4: What is next for the Dolphins’ rebuild?

The team will focus on finding a general manager before turning to potential coaching and roster changes in the offseason.

Q5: How long has Chris Grier been with the Dolphins?

Grier joined the Dolphins in 2000 and served as general manager from 2016 until his dismissal in 2025.