Dolphins face uncertainty as Jaylen Waddle reappears on injury report ahead of crucial Bills matchup
Injury Report Update
As the Miami Dolphins prepare for their pivotal Thursday night clash against the Buffalo Bills, uncertainty looms with the reappearance of wide receiver Jaylen Waddle on the injury report. The Dolphins issued their second injury report ahead of the game, reflecting an estimation based on their practice schedule, which was non-existent on Tuesday.
Waddle, who had previously been removed from the injury report after a full practice last Friday, is now listed as a limited participant due to a shoulder injury. This marks a concerning development for the Dolphins, as his status adds to the team’s growing list of injury woes. After playing 47 of 57 offensive snaps in the recent game against the New England Patriots, it remains unclear whether Waddle has aggravated an existing issue or is dealing with a new setback. Head coach Mike McDaniel has opted to remain tight-lipped on the matter, with no media availability scheduled until after the game in Buffalo.
Other Key Injuries
The Dolphins can ill afford to lose more players, especially given the magnitude of the upcoming matchup. Cornerback Storm Duck is nursing an ankle injury and safety Ifeatu Melifonwu is sidelined with a calf issue, both of whom did not practice on Tuesday. Melifonwu’s absence is particularly notable, as he has been a starter in the first two games of the season. If he can’t go, Ashtyn Davis is likely to assume his role, with rookie Dante Trader Jr. potentially stepping up as well.
Additionally, tight end Darren Waller, who has been dealing with a mysterious hip issue, is not expected to be ready for the Bills game, according to his agent. Waller was seen working on conditioning off to the side during the practice session’s open portion. Other players listed as limited participants include starting center Aaron Brewer (hip), linebacker Chop Robinson (knee), and wide receiver Malik Washington (thumb). They join a list of players who missed the Indianapolis game, such as cornerback Ethan Bonner (hamstring), defensive tackle Benito Jones (oblique), and running back Jaylen Wright (knee).
Bills Injury Report
Across the field, the Buffalo Bills are also grappling with injury concerns. Their practice on Tuesday produced an unchanged injury report, which lists six players, including key defensive starters Matt Milano (pectoral) and Ed Oliver (ankle) who did not participate.
Three additional players on the defensive side—cornerback Taron Johnson (quad), defensive back Cam Lewis (shoulder), and linebacker Shaq Thompson (hamstring/hand)—were limited in their participation. Notably, defensive back Jordan Hancock was a full participant, despite dealing with a shoulder injury.
Quarterback Josh Allen, who sustained a bloodied nose during Buffalo’s recent 30-10 victory over the New York Jets, remains on the injury report but reassured reporters that he plans to wear a visor, as he did during practice.
Looking Ahead
With both teams facing significant injury concerns, the stakes are high as the Dolphins and Bills prepare to clash in a game that could have major implications for their seasons. The uncertainty surrounding Waddle’s health adds an extra layer of tension, making it a situation worth monitoring as kickoff approaches.
