Ethan Bonner’s Chance to Shine Amid Dolphins’ Injury Woes
The Miami Dolphins are navigating a challenging week as injuries plague their roster ahead of a crucial matchup against the Buffalo Bills. With several key players sidelined, cornerback Ethan Bonner finds himself on the brink of a significant opportunity.
Injury Report Overview
On Thursday, the Dolphins saw a slight improvement in their injury situation, with the number of absent players decreasing from four to three. However, the team is still likely to be without both starting cornerback Rasul Douglas and 2024 first-round pick Chop Robinson, each missing practice for the second day in a row.
Douglas’ absence opens the door for Bonner, who could potentially make his debut as a starter in the NFL. Defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver mentioned that rookie fifth-round pick Jason Marshall Jr. could also be a viable option in the secondary, should Bonner’s opportunity arise.
Defensive Line Adjustments
In addition to Douglas and Robinson, wide receiver Dee Eskridge also remains out, further complicating the Dolphins’ preparations. Robinson, expected to step into the starting role following the trade of defensive end Phillips to the Philadelphia Eagles, won’t likely see action until Week 11 against the Washington Commanders.
The only positive change on Thursday’s injury report was the limited return of safety Ifeatu Melifonwu, who had been dealing with thumb and foot issues. The defensive lineup could see some shifts, with veteran Matthew Judon joining Bradley Chubb as the second starting edge defender if Robinson is unable to play.
Limited Participation and Next Steps
Several defensive players are listed as limited participants, most notably defensive tackle Zach Sieler, who is struggling with a shoulder injury. Chubb continues to contend with foot issues, while safety Ashtyn Davis, who missed the last game against Baltimore due to a quad injury, could also be sidelined. If neither Davis nor Melifonwu is ready for the Bills, the Dolphins may have to rely on rookie Dante Trader Jr. to step up in a starting capacity.
The running back situation remains uncertain, as Ollie Gordon II was limited due to an ankle injury sustained against Baltimore. Tight end Julian Hill returned to practice after missing the previous two games with an ankle issue, adding some depth to the Dolphins’ offense. Regardless of Gordon’s status, second-year running back Jaylen Wright is expected to be active against Buffalo after sitting out against Baltimore.
Buffalo’s Injury Landscape
Turning to the Bills, they had a mix of returns and absences in their Thursday practice. Four players, including Joey Bosa (wrist), James Cook (ankle), Taron Johnson (groin), and DaQuan Jones (calf), were back on the field, while starting cornerback Christian Benford and special teams standout Sam Franklin were missing due to injury and illness, respectively. Linebacker Terrel Bernard was a full participant after being limited the previous day, and former Dolphins defensive tackle Jordan Phillips, recently promoted from the practice squad, is also back in action.
As the Dolphins prepare for the upcoming game, Bonner’s ascent into a starting role could be a defining moment for the young cornerback. With the stakes high against a formidable Bills team, the Dolphins will need to rally and adapt quickly to their injury-riddled lineup.
