Dolphins Face Injury Challenges Ahead of Steelers Matchup
The Miami Dolphins are gearing up for a challenging Monday night showdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers, but they’ll have to do so without one of their pivotal contributors on special teams. Elijah Campbell has been ruled out due to ankle and knee injuries, as confirmed by the team’s final injury report. This marks a notable absence for the Dolphins, who will need to adjust their special teams strategy.
Next Man Up for Special Teams
With Campbell sidelined, the Dolphins are turning to Isaiah Johnson to fill his shoes. Johnson was promoted to the active roster from the practice squad just last week and will play a critical role in maintaining the effectiveness of the special teams unit. Additionally, Quinton Bell, who has also been elevated from the practice squad, is expected to step in significantly on special teams. Both players had previously been elevated three times before securing their spots on the 53-man roster, showcasing the team’s reliance on their depth.
Offensive Line Adjustments
The Dolphins will also be without offensive lineman Larry Borom, who has been added to the injury report due to an illness. To counter Borom’s absence, Miami has elevated Kion Smith from the practice squad, bolstering their offensive line as they prepare for a tough matchup against the Steelers’ defense.
The remaining inactives for Miami include familiar names: wide receiver Tahj Washington, defensive lineman Matthew Butler, and cornerback A.J. Green III, who is new to the team. Notably, for the 14th time in 15 games, Quinn Ewers will serve as the emergency third quarterback, with Zach Wilson positioned as the backup to Tua Tagovailoa.
Steelers’ Injury Report
On the other side of the field, the Pittsburgh Steelers are also facing significant injury challenges. The most notable absence is star pass rusher T.J. Watt, whose impact will be missed on the defensive line. Equally concerning for the Steelers is the absence of rookie first-round pick Derrick Harmon. The defensive tackle from Oregon has been dealing with a knee injury, leading to his inactive status, which is particularly alarming for a defense that has struggled against the run in recent weeks.
The Steelers have allowed over 200 rushing yards to both the Buffalo Bills and Baltimore Ravens in their last two games, so Harmon’s absence could exacerbate those issues. Alongside Harmon, starting cornerback James Pierre will also miss the game due to a calf injury, as he was ruled out on Saturday.
Other players not in uniform for Pittsburgh include wide receiver Roman Wilson, who shares a high school connection with Tagovailoa, offensive guard Andrus Peat, and defensive tackle Brodric Martin-Rhodes.
As both teams navigate their respective injury crises, the matchup promises to be a test of depth and resilience for the Dolphins and Steelers alike.
