Dolphins HC Mike McDaniel reveals why he "didn't turn his phone off" amid Jaylen Waddle, De'Von Achane trade calls

Mike McDaniel said during Sunday's postgame presser that leaving his phone on during the trade deadline wasn’t about fielding offers for Miami’s best players. The Dolphins pulled off a 30-13 upset victory over the Buffalo Bills.

The win gave a positive note in a disappointing season that included the dismissal of longtime Dolphins general manager Chris Grier following Week 9. The Miami coach responded to reporters' questions about the trade deadline discussions about Jaylen Waddle and De'Von Achane. He stressed how routine it has been for struggling teams to receive inquiries about their stars.

“I’m happy with our collective decision," McDaniel said. “I’ve never once thought of those dudes not as a Dolphin. It’s only healthy not to turn your phone off but I think it’s pretty status quo."

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According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, the Bills offered a first- and third-round pick in hopes of acquiring Waddle before the deadline. Dolphins interim general manager Champ Kelly, who stepped in after Grier’s firing, chose to retain Waddle and Achane.

Mike McDaniel pushes back on incomplete trade coverage

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Mike McDaniel described the trade chatter as part of a cycle that resurfaces every fall when teams struggle.

"It's frustrating every trade deadline to me because there's like 30% of the information is reported," McDaniel told reporters on Sunday. "That is very, very normal to have people check in if you have a losing record. That's pretty much autopilot of the entire National Football League is you try to see if there's anybody willing to let go of their best players."

The Dolphins answered those calls on the field. De'Von Achane delivered one of his best games, recording 225 scrimmage yards and scoring two long fourth-quarter touchdowns. He amassed 195 yards after contact and 11 forced missed tackles.

Jaylen Waddle added five receptions for 84 yards and a touchdown, beating rookie Max Hairston for Miami’s opening score.

Achane discussed tuning out the noise and stressed his commitment.

"I want to be here," Achane told reporters. "No matter our record this is where I want to be. I was glad neither one of us was gone."

McDaniel’s approach reflects a desire to steady the team amid off-field changes. While Chris Grier’s departure shifted personnel authority to Champ Kelly, Miami resisted a roster teardown and focused on continuity.

Edited by Victor Ramon Galvez