Injury Report Highlights Concerns for Miami Dolphins Ahead of Saints Showdown
The Miami Dolphins have released their initial injury report for Week 13’s matchup against the New Orleans Saints, unveiling a troubling list of players whose availability is in doubt. As the Dolphins prepare for this crucial game, the health of key players remains a significant concern.
Austin Jackson and Darren Waller Limited in Practice
At the forefront of the injury report are Austin Jackson and Darren Waller, both of whom were designated as limited participants. Jackson, who has not seen game action since Week 1, had his practice window activated prior to the Dolphins’ Week 11 encounter against the Commanders. Meanwhile, Waller has been dealing with a pectoral injury that has sidelined him since his last appearance against the Browns. He also missed the first three games of the season due to a previous injury.
A Growing List of Limited Players
The Dolphins’ injury woes extend beyond Jackson and Waller. Several other players are also listed as limited, including:
Jaylen Waddle (foot)
Aaron Brewer (ankle/foot)
Bradley Chubb (foot)
Rasul Douglas (foot/ankle)
Benito Jones (ankle)
Chubb and Waddle were notably absent during the open practice sessions earlier this week. Chubb’s injury emerged late in the lead-up to the game against Washington, where he played but clearly struggled with the issue. Waddle’s foot injury is a new development, as he was not included in last week’s report prior to the team’s bye.
On a positive note for Miami, some players have shown signs of recovery. Dee Eskridge (shoulder), Matthew Judon (knee), and Ifeatu Melifonwu (thumb) all participated fully in Wednesday’s practice. Eskridge, who has been out since Week 9 against the Ravens, was previously listed as questionable for the game against Washington but did not play. Melifonwu, despite earlier concerns regarding his thumb and foot, suited up against Washington. Judon’s knee issue, however, appeared for the first time this week, leaving his status uncertain.
Saints’ Injury Report Shows Key Absences
The Saints’ injury report is less extensive but features critical names that could impact their offensive capabilities. Chief among them is running back Alvin Kamara, who did not participate in practice as he recovers from a knee injury. Kamara sustained an MCL sprain during last week’s game against the Falcons, and his absence would be a significant blow to New Orleans’ offense.
Three additional players were limited in practice for the Saints:
Taliese Fuaga (ankle) – starting tackle
Chris Olave (back) – star receiver
Devin Neal (ankle) – depth running back
Olave, recognized as the team’s top receiver, along with Fuaga, who plays a vital role on the offensive line, further complicates the Saints’ preparations. With Kamara potentially sidelined, New Orleans may find themselves missing pivotal pieces of their offensive strategy.
Neal’s potential absence is also noteworthy. While he has not made a substantial impact this season, he serves as Kamara’s primary backup. If neither player can take the field on Sunday, the Saints may turn to Audric Estime as their third-string running back. Estime, yet to carry the ball this season, would face a challenging task against a Dolphins defense eager to capitalize on any weaknesses.
As both teams navigate their injury challenges, the game promises to be a test of depth and resilience. The Dolphins and Saints will need to adapt quickly as they prepare for their upcoming clash.
