Dolphins Gear Up for Key Matchup Against Saints as Kamara Sits Out
The Miami Dolphins are poised to field a nearly complete squad as they prepare to face the New Orleans Saints this Sunday, marking their return from a bye week. With no players ruled out on the final injury report, the Dolphins have a promising outlook heading into the game. Only two players from their 53-man roster were classified as questionable, alongside tight end Darren Waller and tackle Austin Jackson, both of whom have been designated to return.
Roster Decisions Loom
By 4 p.m. ET on Saturday, the Dolphins must announce whether they will activate Jackson or Waller. To accommodate any roster moves, the team will need to make corresponding transactions, such as waiving a player or placing someone on injured reserve, as they are currently at the roster limit. Jackson and Waller were both listed as limited participants in practice on Friday, along with defensive tackle Benito Jones and cornerback Rasul Douglas, the other two questionable players.
The return of these key contributors could significantly impact the team’s performance. Center Aaron Brewer, who had been limited in the previous two days of practice, returned to full participation, providing a boost to the offensive line. If Jones is unable to play, rookie seventh-round pick Zeek Biggers, who has impressed in his recent appearances, may see increased playing time.
Defensive Reinforcements Needed
Douglas’s potential return is particularly crucial. He has missed the past two games due to injury, and his presence would help stabilize the secondary, especially after JuJu Brents was placed on injured reserve following a knee injury sustained during the Dolphins’ last outing — a hard-fought 16-13 overtime victory against the Washington Commanders in Week 11.
Saints’ Injury Concerns
On the other side of the field, the Saints have their own injury woes. Running back Alvin Kamara has been ruled out after suffering a knee injury in last week’s 24-10 loss to the Atlanta Falcons. His absence is a significant blow to the Saints’ offense, as he has been a key playmaker throughout the season.
However, there is a silver lining for New Orleans fans regarding wide receiver Chris Olave. After missing practice on Thursday due to a back injury, Olave returned for limited practice on Friday and is officially listed as questionable. He leads the Saints with 69 receptions and 734 receiving yards, making him the team’s most formidable offensive threat in Kamara’s absence.
Other Saints Players Ready to Contribute
Additionally, tackle Taliese Fuaga and running back Devin Neal, who were included in the Saints’ injury report, received no game status designation, indicating they are set to take the field at Hard Rock Stadium.
As the Dolphins and Saints brace for this pivotal matchup, the absence of Kamara could shift the offensive dynamics for New Orleans, while Miami looks to leverage their near-full roster to secure a crucial victory.
