Dolphins' Mike McDaniel reveals Dan Quinn's importance to his sobriety

Charlie Baduini

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Dolphins' Mike McDaniel reveals Dan Quinn's importance to his sobriety image

The Miami Dolphins are gearing up for a European showdown with the Washington Commanders when they play Sunday morning in Madrid, Spain.

Both teams' head coaches, Mike McDaniel and Dan Quinn, have longstanding ties, having coached together with the Atlanta Falcons from 2015 to 2016.

McDaniel credits Quinn with helping him through his battle with alcoholism, and spoke about it with the media during his Wednesday press conference.

Dan Quinn 'holds a special place' in Mike McDaniel's heart

"Dan Quinn holds a special place in my heart, in my career... He was there at ground zero when I became sober and supported me and believed in me and gave me the opportunity to continue what I love to do," McDaniel said.

"So for that, I’ll be forever indebted to him. I think it speaks to the type of man he is and type of leader he is, that I know really he touches every player he coaches from a true, authentic standpoint. I think the Commanders are very fortunate to have him."

McDaniel has long been outspoken about his sobriety journey, dating back to his days as an assistant coach.

In January 2016, then Falcons coaches Quinn, Kyle Shanahan and Raheem Morris held an intervention for McDaniel, telling him they were concerned with his dependency on alcohol.

After that, the Dolphins head coach swore off drinking, something he has stuck to this day.

It serves as a great reminder that some things are bigger than sports, and even though Miami and Washington will be facing off on Sunday, both head coaches hold a tremendous amount of love and respect for one another, thanks to their long-time relationships.

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Editorial Team