Miami Gardens, Florida – The Miami Dolphins have announced the dismissal of two key coaching staff members: special teams coordinator Danny Crossman and wide receivers coach Wes Welker. The decision, revealed on Friday, comes as part of the team’s efforts to improve moving forward.
Danny Crossman wraps up his career with the Dolphins after an extensive 32-year tenure in coaching special teams, including 22 years at the professional level within the NFL. He took charge of Miami’s special teams unit in 2019, having previously served in similar positions with the Carolina Panthers from 2005 to 2009, the Detroit Lions from 2010 to 2012, and the Buffalo Bills from 2013 to 2018. Over the last three years, Miami’s special teams have struggled significantly, ranking near the bottom of the league and accumulating numerous penalties during the 2024 season.
“I appreciate Danny’s hard work and commitment to the Miami Dolphins throughout the years, as well as the important support he provided me as a head coach,” stated Coach Mike McDaniel in his announcement.
Wes Welker, a former NFL wide receiver known for his impressive 12-year playing career, joined the Dolphins’ coaching staff in 2022. Under his guidance, the Dolphins experienced significant success in their passing game, especially during his first two seasons. However, the team’s aerial attack regressed in 2024, ranking 15th after leading the league the previous year. The decline was most prominently reflected in the performance of star receiver Tyreek Hill, who recorded merely 959 yards this season—the lowest total he has posted since a limited season in 2019 with the Kansas City Chiefs, when he managed 860 yards due to injuries.
“I also want to extend my thanks to Wes for his dedication and hard work,” McDaniel acknowledged. “This was not an easy decision, but in my assessment of the season and the areas in which we need to enhance our performance, I am convinced that changes are necessary. I am focused on making choices that serve the best interests of the team as we progress.”
