Overview
- Owner Stephen M. Ross fired Mike McDaniel on Thursday after a 7-10 season, ending a four-year tenure that included two playoff berths but back-to-back losing records.
- John Harbaugh, dismissed by the Ravens earlier in the week, is viewed across outlets as the top coach on the market, with the Giants also considered a leading suitor.
- Chargers assistant GM Chad Alexander, a reported Miami finalist who spent two decades with the Ravens, is interviewing as the Dolphins seek to complete their front-office hire before choosing a coach.
- Reporting conflicts persist over motive: ESPN’s Jeff Darlington says McDaniel’s firing was independent of Harbaugh’s availability, while Newsweek cites an agent asserting Miami moved to target Harbaugh.
- Process factors shape the chase, with Rooney Rule interview requirements in place and betting markets installing Miami as the favorite, as the Buccaneers stick with Todd Bowles and are not pursuing Harbaugh.