Dolphins Embrace Resilience as James Daniels Takes the Field Against Colts
The Miami Dolphins are set to kick off their season against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium, with the notable presence of starting guard James Daniels in the lineup. Despite a concerning ankle injury sustained during practice on Thursday, which sidelined him from Friday’s session, Daniels has been cleared to play and is not listed among the inactives.
Inactives for the Dolphins
The Dolphins’ inactive list features three players who were confirmed out following the final injury report of the week: tight end Darren Waller (hip), running back Jaylen Wright (knee), and cornerback Ethan Bonner (hamstring). However, wide receiver Dee Eskridge, who faced uncertainty due to a concussion, will be active for the game.
Three players—tackle Kendall Lamm, wide receiver Tahj Washington, and defensive tackle Zeek Biggers—are marked as healthy inactives, with rookie quarterback Quinn Ewers designated as the emergency third-string option. Lamm’s absence opens the door for free-agent acquisition Larry Borom to assume the backup tackle role against the Colts. Washington, competing for a roster spot, was edged out by Eskridge, while Miami opted for veteran Matthew Butler as the fifth defensive tackle, placing him ahead of Biggers on the depth chart.
Colts’ Inactive Roster
On the other side, the Colts have listed running back Tyler Goodson as inactive due to an elbow injury, marking the sole player who was questionable on their final injury report. The Indianapolis inactives also include cornerback Johnathan Edwards, tight end Will Mallory, linebacker Chad Muma, tackle Luke Tenuta, and defensive end JT Tuimoloau, with rookie Riley Leonard set to serve as the third quarterback.
In a strategic move, the Dolphins elevated running back Ulysses Bentley IV and linebacker Austin Ajiake from the practice squad in response to Goodson’s injury, bolstering their roster ahead of the matchup.
As the Dolphins prepare to face the Colts, their ability to navigate injuries while maintaining a competitive edge will be pivotal in the early stages of the season.
