Dolphins Welcome Back Austin Jackson and Darren Waller Against Saints
The Miami Dolphins are set to make a significant impact in their Week 13 matchup against the New Orleans Saints, with the return of both Austin Jackson and Darren Waller. On Saturday, the team confirmed that both players have been activated off the injured list, just in time for the pivotal clash at Hard Rock Stadium.
Injury Comebacks
Austin Jackson has been sidelined for the past ten games due to a toe injury, which he first sustained during training camp and later aggravated in the season opener against the Indianapolis Colts. His return brings a much-needed boost to the offensive line, enhancing the team’s ability to protect quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.
Darren Waller, the talented tight end, missed the last four games due to a pectoral injury. Waller is returning after fulfilling the minimum requirement for sitting out, and his presence will undoubtedly strengthen the Dolphins’ offensive strategy. As a key receiving target, he has the potential to change the dynamics of the Dolphins’ passing game.
Roster Adjustments
To accommodate the returning players, the Dolphins made some roster moves, waiving tackle Kion Smith and tight end Hayden Rucci. The decision to maintain the same number of players at each position reflects a strategic approach to ensure depth on the roster. It wouldn’t be surprising if either or both players find their way back to the practice squad after clearing waivers, especially Rucci, who has previous experience with the Dolphins’ practice squad before his promotion to the active roster.
Navigating the Injury Report
Jackson and Waller’s return marks them as the fourth and fifth Dolphins players this season designated for return from injured reserve. The team currently has three remaining designations to use for the rest of the regular season. Earlier in the season, kicker Jason Sanders and offensive lineman Andrew Meyer were also designated to return after being placed on IR during the roster cuts. Additionally, rookie cornerback Jason Marshall Jr. was brought back in late October.
The Dolphins have five other players still on IR following the initial cuts, with the possibility of returning this season. However, season-ending injuries have restricted the options, as Tyreek Hill, JuJu Brents, and Storm Duck are all out for the remainder of the year. That leaves James Daniels and Jordan Colbert as the two remaining players who could be designated for a return.
Offensive lineman Liam Eichenberg has been on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list throughout the season, which does not count against the eight-return limit. Head coach Mike McDaniel has indicated that Eichenberg’s return is unlikely, further emphasizing the significance of Jackson’s comeback.
As the Dolphins gear up for their matchup against the Saints, the return of Jackson and Waller could prove to be a game-changer, both in terms of performance on the field and the morale of the team.
