Dolphins Face Tight End Dilemma Ahead of Falcons Showdown
The Miami Dolphins are grappling with a tight end shortage as they prepare for their Week 8 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons. The situation became more precarious when Julian Hill, a key player at the position, was sidelined due to an ankle injury sustained during the team’s disheartening 31-6 loss to the Cleveland Browns.
Injury Setbacks for the Tight End Position
On the same day veteran Darren Waller was placed on injured reserve, the Dolphins’ depth at tight end took another hit with Hill’s absence from practice. Hill, known for his blocking skills, is critical to the team’s offensive scheme. With his status uncertain for the upcoming game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the Dolphins are weighing their options. They recently added Greg Dulcich from the practice squad, bringing the total number of tight ends on the active roster to three. However, should Hill be unable to play, the Dolphins may need to elevate either second-year tight end Hayden Rucci or newly signed veteran Chris Myarick to fill the gap.
Positive News on the Defensive Front
Despite the tight end crisis, there was a glimmer of hope during Wednesday’s practice with the return of rookie cornerback Jason Marshall Jr. The fifth-round draft pick from Florida was designated to return and participated in a limited capacity. This marks the Dolphins’ third use of the injury reserve designation, previously applied to cornerback Ethan Bonner and kicker Jason Sanders. While Bonner has rejoined the team, Sanders remains sidelined with a hip issue.
The Dolphins are also expected to utilize additional IR designations for guard James Daniels and tackle Austin Jackson, both of whom have been out since the season opener against the Indianapolis Colts.
Continuing Injury Concerns
Hill’s injury is compounded by the absence of other key players. Defensive back Elijah Campbell also missed practice as he recovers from a quad injury that has kept him out for two games. Center Aaron Brewer is limited due to a pectoral issue, while rookie safety Dante Trader Jr. is dealing with a shoulder problem. Notably, cornerback Storm Duck, despite being listed with an ankle injury, has been a full participant in practice since Week 1.
On a brighter note, rookie first-round pick Kenneth Grant appeared on the injury report for the first time with a foot issue but managed to fully participate. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa continues to navigate a left thumb injury yet remains a full participant in practice.
Falcons Injury Report Provides Mixed Signals
The Atlanta Falcons are also dealing with their own injury challenges following their recent game against the San Francisco 49ers. Their practice was a walk-through, and the injury report was based on estimations. Notably, starting linebacker Divine Deablo is expected to miss several weeks due to a broken forearm suffered in the loss to the 49ers. Two other players, cornerback Billy Bowman Jr. (hamstring) and rookie first-round pick Jalon Walker (groin), were also listed as did not practice.
Quarterback Michael Penix Jr., nursing a knee bone bruise, was among six players listed as limited participants, alongside starting tackle Jake Matthews (ankle), running back Tyler Allgeier (hip/knee), cornerback Mike Ford Jr. (calf), defensive lineman Zach Harrison (knee), and wide receiver Darnell Mooney (hamstring).
As the Dolphins prepare for their clash with the Falcons, the tight end position remains a pivotal concern, while the return of Marshall offers a beacon of hope on the defensive side of the ball.
