Miami Dolphins Anticipate Key Returns Against Saints
The Miami Dolphins are gearing up for a potentially transformative Week 13 matchup against the New Orleans Saints, as they may welcome back not one, but two significant contributors from injured reserve. Tackle Austin Jackson and tight end Darren Waller are both candidates to be activated, following promising remarks from head coach Mike McDaniel during Friday’s pre-practice media session.
Waller’s Surprising Comeback
Among the two, Waller’s return stands out as the more unexpected development. After being sidelined for four games due to a pectoral injury, he resumed practice just this week. McDaniel hinted at Waller’s strong possibility of returning to the lineup, stating that the final assessment would take place following Friday’s practice. The Dolphins’ tight end position has faced challenges in recent weeks, and Waller’s reintegration could provide a much-needed boost to the passing game, which has recently leaned heavily on the talents of wide receiver Jaylen Waddle.
Jackson’s Role in the Lineup
Austin Jackson, who participated in practice leading up to the game against the Washington Commanders in Spain, could also make his return. McDaniel noted that Jackson might share time with his replacement, Larry Borom, upon his activation. The offensive line has been a focal point for the Dolphins as they aim to enhance both their run and pass games.
Roster Adjustments Ahead
As the Dolphins currently occupy the 53-player roster limit after signing linebacker and special teams specialist Caleb Johnson off their practice squad, activating either player will necessitate a corresponding roster move. If the team chooses to maintain their positional distribution, waiving rookie Hayden Rucci appears to be a plausible option for making room for Waller.
The situation becomes more convoluted when considering Jackson’s return. Veteran Kendall Lamm and third-year offensive lineman Kion Smith are both potential candidates for the waiver wire. While Lamm brings experience to the table, he has only seen limited action this season, playing just seven snaps during a blowout win against the Atlanta Falcons. Conversely, Smith has shown promise but struggled in his earlier attempts to fill in for veteran James Daniels at right guard.
Exploring Other Options
Creating space by placing a player on injured reserve is a common practice at this point in the season. However, the Dolphins have had all members of their 53-man roster participate in practice this week, making this option less viable. Another avenue could involve moving a player from a position of surplus, and the wide receiver group stands out in this regard. Currently, the Dolphins boast six receivers on their roster, a hefty number considering their recent shift towards a more run-centric offensive approach. It wouldn’t be surprising if Cedrick Wilson Jr., recently signed from the Saints practice squad, were to be let go following the Tyreek Hill injury.
The answers regarding these roster decisions will crystallize by Saturday at 4 p.m. ET, as the Dolphins finalize their lineup for the crucial game against the Saints.
