The Miami Dolphins may not win playoff games but their players are the happiest in the league according to the latest NFLPA survey. The Dolphins were 1st in 7 of 11 categories, their facilities, staff and culture is top notch. Fans want playoff success but their commitment to player happiness could be the key to attracting top talent and building a winner.
NFLPA Survey Results: Dolphins on Top
The NFLPA released the results of their league-wide survey which polled 1,695 players on their workplace and overall satisfaction with their team. The Dolphins were the highest rated team in the 2025 Report Card.
Owner Stephen Ross was rated the highest owner in the league and the Dolphins were 1st in 7 of 11 categories. Those categories include:
- Food/dining area
- Training room
- Training staff
- Weight room
- Strength coaches
- Team travel
- Ownership
They were 2nd in nutritionist/dietician, 3rd in treatment of families, 4th in locker room quality and 6th in head coach.
The report said the Dolphins go above and beyond to provide an elite player experience. For example, they renovated the gameday locker room at Hard Rock Stadium this summer. While not evaluated in the survey, it shows they are committed to creating a world class environment for their players.
What Makes the Miami Dolphins Stand Out?
The Dolphins’ high grades in food/dining, training staff and weight rooms show they care about their players and development. Players also loved the travel arrangements which can make a big difference in morale on long road trips.
Mike McDaniel Leadership
Head coach Mike McDaniel got high marks from his players, especially on efficiency and being open to feedback. According to the survey:
- 98% of Dolphins players think McDaniel is efficient with their time. 7th out of 32 coaches.
- Players think McDaniel is very open to locker room feedback. 4th among all coaches.
But the big question is: Can McDaniel get the Dolphins back to the playoffs and end the 25 year drought?
Room for Improvement
Despite being top-ranked, the Dolphins aren’t perfect. Players want:
- A nicer home game hotel.
- More sideline passes for family members before games.
Fixing those could make the already great player experience even better.
Why This Matters for Free Agency
Being #1 in 7 out of 11 is big and will help the Dolphins in free agency next month. Prospective players think about facilities, coaches and org culture when choosing a new team. Add in no state income tax and Miami is even more desirable.
Can Happiness Translate to Success?
It’s great the players are happy but fans care about wins—especially in the playoffs. The team hasn’t won a playoff game since 2000 and a lot of their future success will be determined by what McDaniel and GM Chris Grier do this offseason.
Filling holes and addressing needs will be key if they want to turn their positive culture into results on the field. But having a happy locker room is a good place to start.
FAQs About the Dolphins’ NFLPA Survey Results
Why did the Dolphins score so high in the NFLPA survey?
They were top 5 in facilities, staff and ownership. Owner Stephen Ross was the highest graded owner and they scored 1st in 7 of 11 categories.
What do the players need?
Better home game hotels and more family sideline passes before games. Fixing those will help the player experience.
How does Mike McDaniel fit into all this?
He was efficient with player time and receptive to feedback. But can he translate this positive culture into playoff success?
Can the Miami Dolphins attract free agents with this?
Absolutely. 1st in several categories and no state income tax in Florida makes Miami a attractive destination for free agents.
Will happiness help the Dolphins win games?
While a positive locker room culture is beneficial, success ultimately depends on roster improvements and strategic decision-making by the coaching staff and front office.