The Miami Dolphins are coming off of an 8-9 season where they missed the playoffs, falling short of expectations after an 11-6 season the year before.
Head coach Mike McDaniel and several players have signaled a culture shift heading into this season. According to Ryan Mackey of WPLG Local 10 News in Miami, McDaniel is taking a stricter approach to accountability this season.
McDaniel was very candid in Wednesday's media session about what he needs from the team.
"The football program has to focus on football,” McDaniel said. “first and foremost, being on time, being accountable to each other and staying to the rules.”
Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel talks to safety Dante Trader Jr. (29) during mandatory minicamp at Hard Rock Stadium.
Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
8-9 was a major disappointment, but it did not help that quarterback Tua Tagovailoa played in just 11 games.
The $212.4 million man has been supportive of the "culture shift" he believes he is seeing within the organization.
McDaniel was extremely fiery when he described what that change means and how it needs to happen.
“Feeling very open as a team that, ‘Hey, it’s okay to call someone out when they deserve to be called out.’ And for those people … it’s okay to be called out as long as you change your [expletive] behavior, okay?”
McDaniel's coaching style is known for his emphasis on positive reinforcement and humor. This change does not imply he is sacrificing that strategy. The Dolphins' head coach may instead be being more detailed about the importance of "extreme communication," which has been something he has also previously discussed as important during his tenure.
With the support of the team's quarterback, among other key players and new additions, the results on the field will tell the story of how much this culture shift makes a difference.
