Dolphins Injury Report Brings Hope Ahead of Washington Clash
The Miami Dolphins are gearing up for their Week 11 showdown against the Washington Commanders, and the initial injury report has provided a glimmer of optimism. While tackle Austin Jackson continues to be a focal point due to his ongoing recovery from a toe injury, the report unveils several encouraging developments for the Dolphins as they prepare for Sunday’s game.
Positive Updates on Key Players
Austin Jackson, who has been sidelined since Week 1, was listed as a limited participant in Wednesday’s practice. His return is a significant step forward for the Dolphins, who have felt his absence on the offensive line. Head coach Mike McDaniel expressed optimism about Jackson’s potential contribution, which could bolster a line that has faced its share of challenges.
Equally noteworthy is the return of wide receiver Dee Eskridge, who missed the previous game against the Buffalo Bills due to a shoulder injury. His presence on the field is expected to enhance the Dolphins’ passing attack significantly. Linebacker Chop Robinson also made headlines by being a full participant in practice, a promising sign after dealing with a concussion. His anticipated return could provide a much-needed spark to Miami’s defense.
Injury Concerns with Other Players
The injury report did not come without its concerns, however. Center Aaron Brewer and cornerback Rasul Douglas were the only Dolphins players not to participate in practice, both sidelined due to foot and ankle injuries. McDaniel noted that Brewer’s situation mirrors Douglas’s, raising questions about their availability for the upcoming game. Should Brewer be unable to play, Daniel Brunskill, who has filled in as a sixth offensive lineman recently, is expected to step up as the starting center.
Jackson and Eskridge were part of a group of six players who were limited in practice, alongside safety Ashtyn Davis (quad), running back Ollie Gordon II (ankle), tight end Julian Hill (ankle), and safety Ifeatu Melifonwu (thumb/foot). Notably, Davis and Hill were both inactive against Buffalo, while Melifonwu made an impact with a critical interception in the end zone during that game.
Washington Commanders Face Significant Setbacks
In a surprising turn, the Washington Commanders ruled out three players ahead of the matchup. Quarterback Jayden Daniels is sidelined due to a left elbow injury, with wide receiver Treylon Burks (finger) and linebacker Ale Kaho (concussion) also unable to participate. This ruling is somewhat rare in the current NFL landscape, where teams often wait until later in the week to declare players out.
The Commanders also had several players sitting out practice, including veteran tight end Zach Ertz and former Dolphins tackle Laremy Tunsil, who received rest days. Additionally, wide receiver Terry McLaurin will not play due to a quad injury, as confirmed by head coach Dan Quinn.
Despite various injury concerns, Washington managed to report limited participation from linebacker Frankie Luvu (shoulder), and safeties Quan Martin (shoulder) and Will Harris (ankle). Running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. (shoulder) and linebacker Bobby Wagner (thumb) were full participants, demonstrating resilience despite their ongoing injuries.
As the Dolphins prepare to face the Commanders, the injury landscape will be critical in determining the strategies both teams employ on Sunday. Miami’s hopes will hinge on the health and readiness of key players as they aim to secure a vital win in the playoff race.
