In a move that has stunned fans, analysts, and marine biologists alike, the Miami Dolphins announced plans today to construct the NFL’s first-ever underwater practice facility, with a projected completion date set for 2026. The announcement, made by team president Tom Garfinkel during a surprise press conference at Hard Rock Stadium, marks a bold—and wet—new chapter in the franchise’s history.
According to Garfinkel, the idea has been in the works for over two years and was inspired by the team’s aquatic namesake. “We’ve been called the Dolphins for over five decades,” Garfinkel said. “It’s time we start living up to the name—literally. Our goal is to create an environment that’s not only cutting-edge in terms of athletic performance, but also unlike anything the NFL has ever seen.”
The facility, which is rumored to be named “The Tank,” will be located adjacent to the team’s current training complex in Miami Gardens and will feature state-of-the-art submerged training rooms, pressurized film study pods, and even a 50-yard regulation underwater field. Engineers claim that the entire complex will sit in a massive transparent dome filled with filtered saltwater, complete with artificial currents to simulate ocean resistance.
Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel expressed excitement about the innovation, calling it a “game-changer” for how the team prepares. “Look, everyone talks about training on grass or turf—nobody’s talking about training at 15 feet below sea level,” McDaniel said. “The resistance training is next-level, the mental conditioning is unmatched, and let’s be honest—it just sounds really cool.”
Team officials stated that the facility is designed with player safety and comfort as top priorities. Players will wear specially designed oxygen-integrated helmets that allow them to breathe and communicate seamlessly underwater. Strength and conditioning coaches will be equipped with submersible tech gear to monitor player metrics in real time.
Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who was given a private tour of the facility’s blueprint, admitted he was skeptical at first. “When they first mentioned underwater practices, I thought it was a prank,” he laughed. “But once I saw the plans and tried on the gear prototypes, I was blown away. It’s like training in the future.”
Not everyone is convinced, however. Critics have raised questions about the feasibility of full-contact practice beneath the surface, not to mention the challenges of passing drills and ball control in a submerged environment. To this, Dolphins officials responded with confidence. “We’ve developed waterproof footballs with neutral buoyancy,” said Chief Innovation Officer Carla Mendes. “And our coaching staff is working with NASA consultants who have experience with underwater movement dynamics.”
Fans, meanwhile, are divided. Some are thrilled by the team’s avant-garde approach, praising the Dolphins for embracing bold ideas. Others worry the move is more about publicity than performance.
But one group that seems thrilled? Actual dolphins. According to the team’s promotional video, local aquatic life may be invited for select “fan days,” and the facility will feature a transparent public viewing gallery where sea creatures can “watch” practices from the outside.
The Dolphins are already planning to host the NFL’s first underwater open practice in summer 2026, complete with floating bleachers, scuba tailgates, and a halftime synchronized swimming show.
Whether it’s a stroke of genius or just a splashy experiment remains to be seen. But one thing’s for sure: the Miami Dolphins are diving headfirst into uncharted waters—and the rest of the league will be watching from the shore.
