Dolphins Receive Promising Injury Update Ahead of Jets Showdown
The Miami Dolphins are entering a critical phase this week, bolstered by a positive injury report just days before their anticipated clash with the New York Jets. Head coach Mike McDaniel expressed cautious optimism regarding the health of his team, noting that he expects all members of the 53-man roster to be available for Sunday’s game.
Injury Insights on Key Players
While safety Elijah Campbell was the sole player absent from Friday’s practice, McDaniel hinted that Campbell could still make an appearance on game day. The most significant development surrounds center Aaron Brewer, who recently faced multiple injury concerns. Initially listed with ankle and neck issues, Brewer’s status became more complicated when a knee issue was added to his injury report, causing him to transition from a full practice participant to a limited one.
McDaniel, however, downplayed the severity of Brewer’s injuries. “It was a product of going after it in practice,” he explained. “A bump and bruise type situation, not something we’re concerned about or anything serious in that way.” Brewer’s strong performance this season has made him a linchpin on the offensive line, and his potential absence would be a significant blow, especially with Daniel Brunskill as his backup, who is primarily utilized in jumbo formations.
Defensive Line Updates
On the defensive side, tackle Benito Jones also missed practice due to an ankle issue, compounded by personal matters. McDaniel reassured reporters that Jones is managing a minor injury and should return in better shape as he continues to recover.
The final injury report, expected to be released Friday afternoon, will provide further clarity on the status of these players ahead of the Dolphins’ pivotal matchup.
Injured Reserve Status
In addition to updates on current injuries, McDaniel addressed the status of two players who were designated to return from injured reserve but have yet to do so: kicker Jason Sanders and offensive guard James Daniels. Sanders’ extended absence does not seem to stem from a worsening condition. “Jason isn’t really surprising me in that he hasn’t had setbacks,” McDaniel remarked. “We knew we were going to have to be patient. It’s not about whether his body isn’t responding; he’s capable of kicking footballs through the uprights. It’s more about the risk of further injury with exertion.”
Sanders sustained his hip injury while warming up for the final preseason game and has been replaced effectively by Riley Patterson this season.
Meanwhile, Daniels’ situation at right guard remains more complex. Although Cole Strange has improved in recent games, the absence of Daniels has created ongoing challenges for the offensive line. McDaniel acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding Daniels’ recovery timeline, saying, “Depending on what month you asked me, I probably would’ve been surprised to know that James isn’t ready at one point, and then at some point, I could kind of see the timeline in terms of it might be a lot longer than we thought. I don’t think it’s a re-injury as much as slowly getting back to where he needs to be.”
The Dolphins are grappling with the prolonged absence of Daniels, yet the offensive line continues to adapt and improve as they prepare for their crucial matchup against the Jets.
