Massive update about Dolphins' Mike McDaniel revealed after loss to Browns

Ahead of Week 7, Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel hinted that he would remain in his job through at least the Nov. 4 trade deadline. 

That was before McDaniel's Dolphins looked like arguably the worst team in the NFL as they suffered a 31-6 loss at a Cleveland Browns side that had also been a mess throughout the campaign on Sunday. 

Nevertheless, it sounds like McDaniel won't be packing his office up before 1-6 Miami plays at the Atlanta Falcons (3-3) on Oct. 26. 

How Dolphins owner reportedly views Mike McDaniel amid losing season

"My understanding early on in the season for the Dolphins and for Mike McDaniel is owner Stephen Ross likes him and believes in him, has extended him in the past, and wants to go forward with Mike McDaniel," NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport revealed during Monday's edition of the "Good Morning Football" program.

Before McDaniel spoke with reporters this past Friday, a Thursday report indicated that Ross was "not looking to" fire the coach anytime soon. That said, one couldn't blame outsiders for wondering if Ross experienced a change of heart after Miami committed four turnovers at Cleveland's Huntington Bank Field. 

Following Sunday's loss, McDaniel suggested that he could bench quarterback Tua Tagovailoa as soon as this week. Tagovailoa tossed three interceptions, one of which was taken to the house for a touchdown, versus the Browns. 

What could cause Stephen Ross to change his mind about Mike McDaniel?

"The only thing that would change it is if, one, fans suddenly stop showing up to the stadium, which could happen for a really bad team in a lost season, or two, if the players stop playing for him," Rapoport added during his update about McDaniel's status.

Assuming McDaniel keeps his job through this week, it seems unlikely he'd be fired following the Atlanta game. The Dolphins host the Baltimore Ravens for a "Thursday Night Football" showdown on Oct. 30, meaning Miami players would only have a few days to get used to working with an interim coach ahead of that showdown. 

However, McDaniel may experience quite the unhappy Halloween if the Dolphins enter that Friday at 1-8 on the season.