Miami Dolphins' owner Stephen Ross will not continue with Jeff Ireland as general manager if the team suffers another losing season without signs of turning in the right direction.

Ross does not have "blind faith" in Ireland, according to a friend of the owner. The source said Ireland would likely be fired if the Dolphins go 5-11.

“Steve really likes Jeff personally and gives him the benefit of the doubt,” that associate said of Ross said.

Ireland said last spring that the Dolphins were hoping to follow the model of the 49ers, as they went from 6-10 in 2010 to 13-3 in 2011.

“They needed new inspiration and new leadership and that’s what we would like to be,” he said. “They’ve got a good defense, really good offensive line. That’s what you aspire to be.”