Dolphins Prepare for Tough Matchup Against Patriots with Key Injuries
The Miami Dolphins are gearing up for their home opener against the New England Patriots, but they will do so with a roster significantly affected by injuries. As the Dolphins attempt to bounce back from their Week 1 performance against the Indianapolis Colts, they find themselves facing an uphill battle with several key players sidelined.
Injury Updates for Miami
The Dolphins welcomed cornerback Ethan Bonner back to practice on Friday, a positive sign after he missed time due to a hamstring injury sustained during the preseason matchup against the Detroit Lions. Running back Jaylen Wright also returned to practice, albeit both players were limited and remain doubtful for Sunday’s contest.
However, Miami’s injury report is concerning, as the team has officially ruled out four players ahead of the game. The list includes:
Austin Jackson (toe)
Storm Duck (ankle)
Benito Jones (oblique)
Darren Waller (hip)
Waller’s absence is particularly notable, as he plays a crucial role in the Dolphins’ offense. The team faces a dilemma in roster management, especially with the need for a kicker, running back, and tight end. After opting for two tight ends in their previous game, head coach Mike McDaniel hinted at possible roster adjustments to accommodate the loss of Waller.
Adding to the uncertainty, safety Ashtyn Davis has been limited in practice due to a knee injury sustained against the Colts, leaving him listed as questionable. In a ray of hope for Dolphins fans, wide receiver Jaylen Waddle was fully cleared from the injury report after participating fully in practice on Friday.
Patriots’ Injury Report
The New England Patriots are also dealing with their share of injury woes, ruling out two players ahead of their matchup against Miami. Notably absent will be star cornerback Christian Gonzalez, who has not practiced in over a month due to a hamstring injury. Defensive end Keion White is also out, having not practiced all week due to illness.
On a more optimistic note for the Patriots, tackle Morgan Moses (foot) and linebacker Marte Mapu (neck) are listed as questionable after limited participation in practice. If Moses is unable to play, rookie seventh-round pick Marcus Bryant is expected to step in at right tackle.
The Patriots’ injury report includes five other players who have not been given a game status designation, meaning they are expected to be available. This group includes edge defender Harold Landry III, who made an impact with 2.5 sacks in the team’s opening loss to the Las Vegas Raiders.
As the Dolphins and Patriots prepare for their vital showdown, both teams will be hoping to navigate their injury challenges effectively. With home-field advantage and a roster filled with potential, the Dolphins will need to harness every available resource to come out on top against a divisional rival.
