Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel has expressed deep gratitude towards Dan Quinn, the head coach of the Washington Commanders, for his pivotal role in guiding him towards sobriety. The two will face off this Sunday, marking their first matchup as head coaches nearly a decade after Quinn intervened in McDaniel”s life.
During a press conference in Madrid on Wednesday, McDaniel reflected on how Quinn was instrumental in his recovery, stating, “Dan Quinn holds a special place in my heart and my career. I think he was there at ground zero when I became sober and supported me and gave me the opportunity to continue what I love to do. So for that, I”ll be forever indebted to him.”
Quinn”s influence on McDaniel began on January 4, 2016, when he, along with fellow coaches Kyle Shanahan and Raheem Morris, confronted McDaniel about his excessive drinking. Following his dismissal from the Houston Texans due in part to his struggles, McDaniel found himself out of the NFL for 865 days before Shanahan offered him a position on his staff with Washington.
McDaniel recounted a pivotal moment when he had to share the coaches” concerns with his wife, Katie. Her disappointed reaction was a catalyst for change, prompting him to declare, “I will never drink again.” He has remained sober since that day, a testament to his commitment to personal growth.
Quinn, speaking from Madrid, expressed pride in McDaniel”s progress. He emphasized the strength it takes to confront personal issues and the importance of support in such moments. “For all of us, when there”s an issue, sometimes you don”t want to let someone you”re with know. But leaning in is the biggest strength you can do,” Quinn remarked. “That”s exactly what Mike did. He said, “this is what I”m working on and how I”m going to do it,” and that”s when the real work begins.”
As the Dolphins prepare for their game against the Commanders, both coaches reflect on their journeys, underscoring the powerful bond forged through adversity and recovery.
