Jason Sanders Returns to Practice Amid Riley Patterson’s Impressive Performance
Miami Dolphins kicker Jason Sanders is set to return to practice this week after a lengthy absence due to a hip injury. While the Dolphins held a walk-through session on Wednesday, the league’s transaction wire indicated Sanders’s return to practice. Although he is back on the field, the Dolphins face an intriguing decision regarding his activation, especially given the standout performance of Riley Patterson in his absence.
Riley Patterson Shines in Sanders’ Absence
Riley Patterson has stepped up admirably as the Dolphins’ kicker while Sanders has been sidelined. His consistent performance raises questions about whether the team will reinstate Sanders to the active roster, even though they previously utilized a return designation when placing him on injured reserve. With Patterson proving himself capable, the Dolphins may opt to proceed cautiously with Sanders’s return.
Injury Report Insights
During the walk-through, the Dolphins released an injury report that categorized Sanders as a limited participant. However, this report was based on estimates due to the nature of the practice. The team also listed four players as “did not practice,” two of whom are key defensive figures: linebacker Jordyn Brooks and safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. Brooks is dealing with foot and knee injuries, while Fitzpatrick is managing a calf issue that has led head coach Mike McDaniel to label him as “week to week.”
Given that the Dolphins are out of playoff contention, it seems prudent for the team to exercise caution with their injured players.
Additional Injury Concerns
The other two players not participating were defensive back Elijah Campbell, who missed the Monday night matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers due to ankle and knee issues, and special-teamer Isaiah Johnson, who is contending with a shoulder injury. Alongside Sanders, rookie first-round pick Kenneth Grant is also listed as limited with a shoulder issue, while tight end Darren Waller is managing a rest day due to a knee concern. Waller sustained his injury during a catch in the fourth quarter against the Steelers when he was inadvertently hit low by cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. Fortunately, the injury did not appear to be severe.
Dolphins’ Full Participation List
The Dolphins had eight players listed as estimated full participants in Wednesday’s practice, demonstrating some depth despite the injury challenges. This group includes:
RB De’Von Achane (ribs)
OL Larry Borom (illness)
LS Joe Cardona (hamstring)
CB Rasul Douglas (foot)
LB Cameron Goode (knee)
RB Ollie Gordon (ankle)
S Ifeatu Melifonwu (thumb/groins)
OL Andrew Meyer (tricep)
Bengals Injury Report
Meanwhile, the Cincinnati Bengals are facing their own set of injury challenges. Five players were absent from practice due to ankle injuries, including three defensive linemen: B.J. Hill, Kris Jenkins, and Joseph Ossai. Tight end Noah Fant and wide receiver Charlie Jones also missed practice.
On the injury report, wide receiver Tee Higgins was limited due to a concussion, while quarterback Joe Burrow was listed as a full participant despite ongoing issues with his knee. First-round pick Shemar Stewart also participated fully while managing a knee injury.
As both teams navigate their respective injury concerns, the coming days will be pivotal for the Dolphins as they assess the readiness of Sanders and the overall health of their roster.
