The Miami Dolphins hired former San Francisco 49ers offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel as their new head coach, replacing Brian Flores.
The Yale alumnus is one of the young bright minds in football who was responsible for the 49ers’ run option scheme.
That strategy helped All-Pro wideout Deebo Samuel establish an NFL record with eight rushing touchdowns last season.
More importantly, it carried them all the way to the NFC Championship Game, only to lose to the division rival Los Angeles Rams.
But in an alternate universe, McDaniel might not even be the Dolphins’ next head coach if the reported deal for Sean Payton pushed through.
#Dolphins were ready to offer Sean Payton a mega-deal worth $100 million deal over 5-years to coach the team.
It would have made it just the second known $100 million coaching contract after the #Raiders gave such contract to Jon Gruden [10-years, $100M]https://t.co/ygMB6GTMhe pic.twitter.com/qKj4DbRmdq
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) June 13, 2022
NFL insider Dov Kleiman tweeted, “#Dolphins were ready to offer Sean Payton a mega-deal worth $100 million deal over 5-years to coach the team. It would have made it just the second known $100 million coaching contract after the #Raiders gave such a contract to Jon Gruden [10-years, $100M].”
The Dolphins could have been a super team if Payton decided to take over.
He would have a solid roster with Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, and Cedrick Wilson at wide receiver.
Mike Gesicki is a reliable tight end while Tua Tagovailoa keeps up his improvement.
Their backfield unit is also loaded with Chase Edmonds, Raheem Mostert, Sony Michel, and Myles Gaskin.
Payton Opted For A Break
Showing him that deal earlier might have made him reconsider his decision.
Reportedly adding Tom Brady as well would have made the decision much easier as well.
After 16 seasons of coaching the New Orleans Saints, and the drama that surrounded Miami this offseason, he felt that resting is the best option for him.
However, he did not close the door on potentially returning to the sidelines.
For now, he will enjoy his time off to explore other endeavors.
If McDaniel falters and Payton decides to come back, perhaps the Dolphins can offer that deal again if they really want the Super Bowl XLIV champion.
NEXT: Could the Dolphins End Up Being A Big Disappointment This Season?