Mike McDaniel configures Dolphins locker room seating to mix players across positions based on interesting combinations. The intentional mixing aims to foster relationships between players who would not normally socialize. The approach pairs veterans with rookies and offensive players with defensive players to encourage learning and camaraderie. In 2023 fullback Alec Ingold sat between cornerback Xavien Howard and wide receiver Jaylen Waddle and gained insight into Houston music and upbringing. The arrangement produces competitive banter and closer bonds by spring. Bradley Chubb described the seating as an opportunity to grow closer and mentor younger teammates.
Most NFL locker rooms seat defensive linemen with defensive linemen, wide receivers with wide receivers, and so on. Consequently, players never get to know their other teammates, especially those on the other side of the ball. McDaniel does it differently. He mixes everyone according to who he thinks would be interesting combinations. He encourages players who normally wouldn't socialize with each other to bond.
"To be honest, I've been wondering the same thing, bro," Chubb said. "I really don't know. But you get to grow closer with guys that you don't usually talk to. "Me and James have been cool. I get to sit across from Achane. Jonah's coming along; I get a chance to mess with him and be cool with him. I'm still trying to get Larry to be my friend. But it's been going smooth."
Collection
[
|
...
]