For the second consecutive season, the Miami Dolphins have been named the top organization by the National Football League’s Players Association. The survey, which included 1,695 players, covered everything from family treatment, the food and dining experience, locker room space, team travel, and even owner Stephen Ross.
The Dolphins scored straight A’s across the eleven categories. More impressive, however, is that they scored the highest ranking in seven of the eleven categories. Owner Stephen Ross—despite his imperfections—was the league’s highest-graded owner, with a 9.88 out of 10 approval rating.
The Dolphins also finished first in the food and dining area, training room, weight room, strength coaches, and team travel. Most of this credit goes to owner Stephen Ross and his ability to upgrade all aspects of the team’s facilities. So, thank you, Mr.Ross.
Head Coach Mike McDaniel received an A+, finishing 6th out of 32 head coaches. According to the survey, “the players feel that McDaniel is highly receptive to locker room feedback on the team’s needs.“ The report also indicated that 98% of Dolphins players surveyed believe McDaniel is efficient with the team’s time, ranking 7th among the 32 teams.
However, it wasn’t all sunshine and roses. For the second straight year, players are pleading with the higher-ups to improve the home game experience, most notably by increasing the number of sideline tickets for families. I specifically remember this being an issue last season, which makes you wonder whether or not the team is really listening. They’d also like a better home game hotel, but outside of that, it appears that things are damn near perfect in Miami.
Still, I do have concerns about some of these grades. For example, the Dolphins have consistently been among the most injured teams during the Mike McDaniel era—and even before. So, while the Dolphins may be one of only three teams in the league that got a perfect score regarding their strength coaches, there’s clearly something that has impacted the team, outside of more than just the hot south Florida sun. But I guess it doesn’t matter and I’m just nitpicking.
Because in the end, the Dolphins — at least based on the NFLPA (which is all that matters) — are 1 of 32. The cream of the crop. They are the Wagyu steak among the overcooked sirloin. And that’s why Miami will continue to do what they’ve been doing. Because, despite what we the fans think, Ross has to be more than happy with what his football team has accomplished — outside, of that ever-elusive, playoff win.
What are your thoughts on the Miami Dolphins being ranked first among all 32 NFL teams for the second consecutive season? Do you care about anything outside of meaningful victories? How could this impact Miami’s pursuit of free agents this offseason? Let us know in the comments section below!
