New England Patriots - NESN.com
One of the New England Patriots’ AFC East rivals made a massive change on Friday.
The Miami Dolphins announced that Chris Grier is out as general manager. Champ Kelly will finish the 2025 season as Miami’s interim GM.
“This morning, I made the decision along with general manager Chris Grier to mutually part ways,” Dolphins owner Stephen Ross said in a statement. “I have incredible respect for Chris and his family, and I want to thank him for his many contributions to the Miami Dolphins over the past 26 years.
“As I assessed the state of the team and in my discussions with Chris, it became clear to both of us that change could not wait. We must improve — in 2025, 2026 and beyond — and it needs to start right now.”
The move comes after an embarrassing 28-6 loss to the Baltimore Ravens on “Thursday Night Football.” Miami committed three turnovers and couldn’t convert any of its three red-zone trips into a touchdown.
Two years after leading the league in total yards, Miami’s offense ranks 28th behind a concerning down year from quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. The Dolphins fell to 2-7 and have scored just 20.0 points per game.
The timing of Grier’s departure is especially notable, as the Dolphins acted four days before the NFL’s trade deadline.
Division opponents don’t often trade with each other, but the Dolphins have some interesting players the Patriots could pursue if their rivals initiate a fire sale. Bradley Chubb, Jaelan Phillips or former Patriots star Matthew Judon could bolster New England’s pass rush, and Kelly may be more willing than Grier to entertain offers for wide receiver Jaylen Waddle.
Despite Grier’s exit, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that head coach Mike McDaniel will stay in Miami for the rest of the season. If that’s the case, his seat could be scorching hot when the Dolphins conclude their schedule at New England.