Austin Jackson’s Return Looms as Dolphins Eye Injury Boost After Bye Week
The Miami Dolphins are entering their bye week with a sense of optimism following a hard-fought victory over the Washington Commanders, which brought their season record to 4-7. While Week 12 may not present an opportunity for further wins, it does offer a chance for several key players to return from injury just in time for their matchup against the New Orleans Saints on November 30.
Mike McDaniel’s Encouraging Update
Head coach Mike McDaniel hinted at a promising recovery timeline for several players during a press conference on Monday. “We’re gonna have a good collection of guys coming back,” he told reporters, though he refrained from providing specific names. Nonetheless, the anticipation surrounding potential returns is palpable as fans and analysts alike speculate on who might rejoin the active roster.
Austin Jackson, Offensive Tackle
Austin Jackson emerges as the most likely candidate to make a comeback. His practice window was activated last week, indicating he could have been available for the game against the Commanders. Jackson has been sidelined since Week 1 due to a toe injury sustained during a matchup against the Indianapolis Colts. Regrettably, this injury is just one of many that have plagued Jackson; he has missed more than half of Miami’s games in four of the last five seasons. If he returns, he will reclaim his position as the starting right tackle, a critical role as the team looks to shore up its offensive line.
James Daniels, Offensive Guard
Another lineman, James Daniels, is also on the mend. After playing just four snaps against the Colts, he suffered a pectoral injury that has kept him out since. Daniels had previously battled back from a torn Achilles to be ready for the season opener, making this setback particularly disheartening. Miami had high hopes for Daniels to stabilize their offensive line, and his return would be a welcome boost to the unit.
Jason Sanders, Kicker
Kicker Jason Sanders has been absent since suffering a hip injury during warmups for the final preseason game. Initially projected to be sidelined for five to six weeks, he is now well beyond that timeline. While it appears unlikely that Sanders will return soon, the possibility cannot be entirely dismissed. In his absence, Riley Patterson has stepped up admirably, successfully converting 17 of 19 field goal attempts, easing some of the pressure on the special teams.
Darren Waller, Tight End
Tight end Darren Waller has been on injured reserve since suffering a pectoral injury in Week 7 against the Cleveland Browns. With this being his fourth week out, he becomes eligible for activation. Though updates on Waller have been sparse, pectoral strains generally have a recovery period of a few weeks. However, Waller’s history of injuries, especially after previously coming out of retirement this summer, raises questions about his readiness and the extent of his role if he does return. Meanwhile, young tight end Greg Dulcich has shown promise, making Waller’s return even more intriguing.
Andrew Meyer and Liam Eichenberg, Offensive Line
Andrew Meyer was placed on injured reserve during roster cuts due to a preseason injury but has been designated to return, suggesting he could play again this season. Conversely, Liam Eichenberg remains on the physically unable to perform list after a preseason injury. Coach McDaniel has expressed skepticism about Eichenberg’s return this season, leaving his future uncertain.
Rasul Douglas, Cornerback
Cornerback Rasul Douglas has missed the last two games due to a foot and ankle injury. Notably, he is not on injured reserve, which bodes well for his potential return against the Saints in Week 12. With teammate JuJu Brents facing his own injury challenges, Douglas’s presence in the secondary would be crucial as the Dolphins prepare for their upcoming matchup.
As the Dolphins navigate this bye week, the prospect of reinforcements returning from injury adds a layer of intrigue to their preparations for the Saints. The team is hopeful that the health of key players will help revitalize their season as they look to turn their fortunes around.
