Established
1966
City
Miami
League History
1970 - Present / National Football League
1966 - 1969 / American Football League
Team History
1966 - Present / Miami Dolphins
Nickname
Dolphins - The Miami Dolphins are among the most popular National Football League (NFL) teams. But did you know that their nickname, "Dolphins," has an interesting origin story?
A fan contest drew 19,843 entries to name the AFL expansion team. A total of 622 contestants suggested “Dolphins.” The bottlenose dolphin, an intelligent creature with an irresistible built-in grin, has inspired wonder for centuries. Team owner Joe Robbie liked the name: "The dolphin is one of the fastest and smartest creatures in the sea.” “Dolphins can attack and kill a shark or a whale. Sailors say bad luck will come to anyone who harms one of them.”
Miami Dolphins Origin
It all began when Joe Robbie and Danny Thomas purchased a franchise for Miami in 1965. The team was originally going to be called the “Miami Marlins,” but another organization already took this name. So they looked elsewhere for inspiration and chose “dolphin” as their new mascot—a nod to Florida's abundance of marine wildlife.
Their logo featured two dolphins swimming side-by-side, one facing forward and the other facing backward—symbolizing progress and unity between fans across different generations. This unique design quickly became iconic among sports enthusiasts everywhere!
Over time, people have come up with various theories about why dolphins were chosen as a mascot: some believe it could represent speed or agility; others think it may be because dolphin pods often work together harmoniously; while still, others suggest it is simply because they're so cute! Whatever your interpretation, there's no denying how beloved these aquatic mammals are throughout South Florida today.
Whether you're watching from home or at Hard Rock Stadium on game day, please support our favorite football team: Go Dolphins!
Championship
Super Bowl 2
1974, 1973
Stadium
2016 - Present / Hard Rock Stadium
2010 - 2016 / Sun Life Stadium
2009 - 2010 / Land Shark Stadium
2005 - 2009 / Dolphin Stadium
1996 - 2005 / Pro Player Stadium
1987 - 1996 / Joe Robbie Stadium
1966 - 1986 / Miami Orange Bowl
Owner
2009 - Present / Stephen M. Ross
2008 - 2009 / Stephen M. Ross and Wayne Huizenga
1993 - 2008 / Wayne Huizenga
1990 - 1993 / Robbie Family and Wayne Huizenga
1966 - 1990 / Joe Robbie
1965 - 1966 / Joe Robbie and Danny Thomas)
- 1966
- 1972
- 1972
- 1973
- 2008
-
Miami Dolphins Team Formation
After a lengthy absence, professional football returned to Miami after the American Football League awarded an expansion team franchise to lawyer Joseph Robbie and actor Danny Thomas for $7.5 million. Robbie had originally wanted to establish the franchise in Philadelphia, but AFL commissioner Joe Foss suggested courting Miami due to its warm climate, growing population, and lack of a football ... -
Only Undefeated Season in NFL
In 1972 the Dolphins completed the only fully undefeated season in the NFL, winning all 14 regular-season games, two playoff games, and Super Bowl VII, defeating the Washington Redskins 14-7. They finished the season 17-0, and are immortalized as the only team to complete an undefeated season and win the NFL title. QB Bob Greise was victim to a broken ... -
Super Bowl VII Winner 1972
Super Bowl VII was an American football game between the American Football Conference (AFC) champion Miami Dolphins and the National Football Conference (NFC) champion Washington Redskins to decide the National Football League (NFL) champion for the 1972 season. The Dolphins defeated the Redskins by the score of 14–7, and became the first and still the only team in NFL history ... -
Super Bowl VIII Winner 1973
Super Bowl VIII was an American football game between the National Football Conference (NFC) champion Minnesota Vikings and the American Football Conference (AFC) champion Miami Dolphins to decide the National Football League (NFL) champion for the 1973 season. The Dolphins defeated the Vikings by the score of 24–7 to win their second consecutive Super Bowl, the first team to do ... -
New Owner Ross
In February 2008, Stephen M. Ross bought 50 percent of the Miami Dolphin franchise, Dolphin Stadium, and surrounding land from then-owner Wayne Huizenga for $550 million, with an agreement to later become the Dolphins’ managing general partner. On January 20, 2009, Ross closed on the purchase of an additional 45 percent of the team from Wayne Huizenga. The total value ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Miami Dolphins History
The Miami Dolphins history is filled with iconic moments that shaped the Miami Dolphins NFL franchise. Founded in 1966, the team began as a charter member of the American Football League (AFL) before joining the National Football League (NFL) after the 1970 merger. Since their inception, the Dolphins have built a strong tradition, winning two Super Bowls, five AFC Championships, and 13 division titles. Legendary players such as Dan Marino, Larry Csonka, Bob Griese, Ricky Williams, and more recently Ryan Tannehill have left their mark on the franchise.
A cornerstone of Miami Dolphins history has been their defense. Under Hall-of-Fame coordinator Bill Arnsparger, from 1970 to 1976, Miami introduced the innovative “53” defense, a scheme that remains influential in football today. During this era, the Dolphins drafted Hall-of-Famer Nick Buoniconti, whose leadership helped carry the team to three straight Super Bowl appearances between 1971 and 1973. They secured wins over Washington in Super Bowl VII and Minnesota in Super Bowl VIII, cementing their dominance.
In the 1980s, Don Shula became a central figure in Miami Dolphins history. Shula guided the team to multiple Super Bowl appearances, including a victory over Washington in Super Bowl VII. Although the Dolphins fell to the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl XIX, the period was one of the most successful in the Miami Dolphins NFL journey, showcasing consistency, innovation, and elite-level play.
Miami Dolphins Achievements
The early 2000s marked another chapter in Miami Dolphins history. Head coach Dave Wannstedt led the team to playoff appearances, but postseason success was limited. Following a sharp decline and the infamous 2007 season where Miami posted a 1–15 record, the franchise rebuilt. Despite the setback, the Dolphins bounced back with competitive seasons, including a strong 2016 campaign under Ryan Tannehill, who threw a career-high in touchdowns to help secure a playoff berth.
Over the decades, the Miami Dolphins NFL franchise has achieved several milestones. They remain the only team in league history to complete a perfect season, finishing 17–0 in 1972. Along with two Super Bowl victories, five AFC titles, and numerous division championships, the Dolphins hold a proud legacy. Their contribution to professional football ensures that the Miami Dolphins history continues to inspire fans and future players alike.
Sports Fan Products
Mount Rushmore Miami Dolphins Player History: A Journey Through Football Excellence
We dive deep into the Mount Rushmore of Miami Dolphins and explore the iconic players who have defined football excellence throughout the franchise's history. In this video, we journey through the Miami Dolphins' greatest moments, showcasing the legendary athletes who have left an indelible mark on the NFL. From the franchise's early days to the modern era, we'll cover the achievements, records, and unforgettable performances that have earned these players a spot on the Mount Rushmore of Miami Dolphins.
Dan Marino Player History: A Record-Breaking Career Highlights! | Dan Marino a football life
In this video, we explore Dan Marino's player history, from his early days in college to his illustrious career with the Miami Dolphins. Known for his quick release and unmatched passing ability, Marino revolutionized the quarterback position, setting records for decades. Despite never winning a Super Bowl, Marino’s legacy is defined by his remarkable achievements and his lasting impact on the game of football.
Retired Number
12 / Bob Griese
13 / Dan Marino
39 / Larry Csonka
*Blue is this team’s history
