The Miami Dolphins hold a distinguished place in NFL history, known for iconic stars and one of the most memorable achievements in professional sports. Since joining the league in 1966, Miami has built a brand rooted in the Sunshine State but with a fanbase that reaches far beyond Florida.
The Dolphins reached their heights in the 1970s under head coach Don Shula, winning back-to-back Super Bowls and recording a perfect season in 1972. Later, quarterback Dan Marino pushed the franchise into a new era defined by record-breaking passing numbers.
Where Do the Miami Dolphins Play?
The Dolphins play their home games at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. Opened in 1987 and continually renovated, the venue features modern seating, shaded canopy coverage for fans, and a visually striking design that fits the South Florida atmosphere.
Hard Rock Stadium is one of the most popular venues for major sporting events in the United States. It has hosted several Super Bowls, major college football games, international soccer, and the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix. Its vibrant energy and climate make it one of the NFL’s most unique game-day settings.
History of the Miami Dolphins
Founded in 1966 by Joe Robbie, the Dolphins became the first major professional sports team in Florida. Their rise under Don Shula remains one of the greatest coaching runs in NFL history.
With a punishing run game, smothering defense, and clinical execution, Miami secured Super Bowl titles in 1972 and 1973. That included the unmatched perfect season in 1972, a feat that will be difficult for any future NFL team to achieve.
In 1983, Miami drafted quarterback Dan Marino, striking gold with the 27th and penultimate pick of the first round. Marino’s arrival ushered in a high-volume passing era that broke records and produced countless highlight moments. Marino led the Dolphins to a Super Bowl appearance in just his second season and amassed statistics that stood atop league history for years.
While team success has not been significant since, the team has featured standout talents. In the post-Marino era, defenders like Jason Taylor and Zach Thomas carried the torch through the 2000s.
Recent seasons have focused on speed and offensive creativity to bring a spark to south Florida. The development of young stars like quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, running back Devon Achane, and receiver Jaylen Waddle has helped Miami build towards a new era of success.
Interesting Facts & Franchise Milestones
- Founded in 1966 as the first major pro team in Florida
- Only team in NFL history with a perfect season (17–0 in 1972)
- Won Super Bowls VII and VIII under Don Shula
- Eight Hall of Fame players from the 1972 roster alone
- Hard Rock Stadium hosts international events including F1
Notable Miami Dolphins Players & Coaches
Notable Players
Larry Csonka, Running Back (1968–1974, 1979)
A power runner and centerpiece of Miami’s 1970s offense, Csonka bulldozed defenses and helped deliver back-to-back championships.
Bob Griese, Quarterback (1967–1980)
A steady leader of the Dolphins’ championship teams, Griese guided the offense with efficiency and poise.
Dan Marino, Quarterback (1983–1999)
One of the greatest pure passers in NFL history, Marino revolutionized the position with prolific statistics, lightning release, and fearless deep throws. In 1984, he became the first NFL quarterback to throw for 5,000 yards or 40 touchdowns in a single season. In the process, he was named NFL MVP and led Miami to Super Bowl XIX, which the Dolphins lost to the San Francisco 49ers.
Jason Taylor, Defensive End/Linebacker (1997–2007, 2009, 2011)
A relentless edge rusher with elite athleticism, Taylor ranks among the NFL’s most productive sack artists. Along with Thomas, he was a defensive cornerstone for more than a decade.
Zach Thomas, Linebacker (1996–2007)
Thomas was an undersized fifth-round pick who became a fixture for the Dolphins. An instinctive, energetic tackling machine, Thomas commanded the middle of Miami’s defense and was highly respected across the league and by fans.
Notable Coaches
Don Shula (1970–1995)
Ending his career with record-breaking totals of 328 regular season wins and 347 wins overall, Shula led Miami to two Super Bowl victories and the league’s only perfect season.
Jimmy Johnson (1996–1999)
In four seasons in Miami, Johnson led the Dolphins to three playoff appearances. While he did not replicate the success that he had with the Miami Hurricanes or Dallas Cowboys, he did lead the franchise to moderate success through a transitional stage after Shula’s retirement.
Mike McDaniel (2022–present)
An innovative offensive mind who emphasizes speed and motion-based schemes, McDaniel has revitalized Miami’s attack and brought renewed playoff aspirations and expectations.