Column: Chris Grier Built the Dolphins Mess

Published: Thursday, October 16, 2025 at 6:43 am

Dolphins' Struggles Point to Leadership Deficiencies

The Miami Dolphins' disappointing start to the 2025 season, following a string of playoff appearances and high expectations, has sparked scrutiny of the team's leadership. The core issue, according to analysts, lies not in talent or luck, but in the direction provided by General Manager Chris Grier.

Despite significant investment in star players like Tua Tagovailoa, Tyreek Hill, and Jaylen Waddle, the Dolphins have struggled to achieve sustained success. The team's roster construction has been criticized for its imbalance, particularly in the offensive line and secondary. The offensive line, despite years of investment, remains unreliable, leaving Tagovailoa vulnerable. The secondary, once a strength, has deteriorated due to a mix of youth and mid-tier veterans, leading to communication breakdowns and a lack of depth. Defensively, the front seven lacks consistent push and rotation depth.

Beyond personnel, the team's culture has been questioned. Discipline issues, missed meetings, and inconsistent effort have been recurring themes. While Coach Mike McDaniel has received praise, the lack of accountability within the team has been evident. The team's aggressive spending on high-profile players has yielded playoff berths but ultimately resulted in early exits. The team's inability to sustain success despite a roster filled with star power points to structural problems.

The Dolphins' owner, Stephen Ross, has consistently backed Grier, prioritizing continuity. However, the team's recurring issues, including poor line play, defensive breakdowns, and a lack of identity, persist under the same leadership structure. The organization's approach has been criticized for prioritizing flash over foundation, leading to a talented but fragile team.

BNN's Perspective:

The Dolphins' situation highlights the critical role of leadership in professional sports. While talent is essential, a strong general manager must build a balanced roster, foster a culture of accountability, and create a sustainable system for success. The Dolphins' current struggles suggest a need for a reevaluation of the team's direction and the leadership guiding it.

Keywords: Miami Dolphins, Chris Grier, NFL, football, roster construction, leadership, Tua Tagovailoa, Tyreek Hill, offensive line, secondary, accountability, Mike McDaniel, Stephen Ross, playoff, AFC, general manager

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