Miami Dolphins Aim to End Prolonged Playoff Drought in 2023

Head coach Mike McDaniel emphasizes finishing and embracing the historic drought, as the Dolphins hope to break their 23-year playoff winless streak.

The Miami Dolphins have not tasted playoff victory since their 23-17 overtime triumph over the Indianapolis Colts in the AFC wild-card round on December 30, 2000. Since then, Miami has endured a six-game playoff losing streak, failing to reach the divisional round.

Last season marked the Dolphins' third consecutive playoff exit in the wild-card round. Their 26-7 defeat to the Kansas City Chiefs in frigid conditions at Arrowhead Stadium was a disappointing end to a promising season.

Head coach Mike McDaniel is determined to change the Dolphins' playoff fortunes. He is instilling an emphasis on "finishing" in everything the team does, aware of the historic drought that hangs over the franchise.

"You get what you emphasize. Well, why not find ways to emphasize finishing in everything you do?" McDaniel said. "Obsess about it. Why not have, for half the offseason, you're trying to have staff meetings at different times during the day. I had every staff meeting I put at like 7:24 or 3:24 or 5:24 – the number 24. To you guys, it means nothing. That's how many years it's been since the organization has won a playoff game. We are going to hear about that come playoff time. You think?"

The Dolphins have undergone some significant roster changes in the offseason. They parted ways with defensive coordinator Vic Fangio and hired Anthony Weaver as his replacement. They also added several key players in free agency, including center Aaron Brewer, cornerback Kendall Fuller, linebacker Shaquil Barrett, wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr., and safety Jordan Poyer.

On the other side of the ledger, Miami lost star defensive tackle Christian Wilkins and guard Robert Hunt to free agency.

Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is entering the final season of his rookie contract. He had a breakout season in 2022, leading the NFL with 4,624 passing yards and earning his first Pro Bowl nod.

Tagovailoa will be surrounded by a talented offense that includes wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, running backs Raheem Mostert and De'Von Achane, and a revamped offensive line.

The Miami Dolphins are determined to end their prolonged playoff drought in 2023. Mike McDaniel is instilling an emphasis on finishing, and the team has bolstered its roster with key acquisitions. Tua Tagovailoa is expected to have a breakout season, and he has a lot of talent around him. If the Dolphins can stay healthy and play to their potential, they have a chance to make a deep playoff run and end their playoff winless streak.