Miami Dolphins Injury Report: Key Kicker Returns as Defense Faces Concerns

The Miami Dolphins have activated kicker Jason Sanders from injured reserve. This news comes as the team prepares for its final regular season game. Sanders had been sidelined for most of the year with a hip issue. The team made the transaction official this week.

His return creates an interesting decision for the coaching staff. Replacement Riley Patterson performed well during Sanders’ absence. According to league reports, the Dolphins held a walk-through practice Wednesday, listing Sanders as a limited participant.

Defensive Stars Absent Amid Playoff Implications

The Dolphins’ injury report raised more significant flags on defense. Two key defenders did not practice. Linebacker Jordyn Brooks and safety Minkah Fitzpatrick were both estimated as non-participants.

Brooks is managing foot and knee injuries. Fitzpatrick is dealing with a calf problem. Head coach Mike McDaniel described Fitzpatrick’s status as “week to week.” With the team out of playoff contention, caution is likely for all injured players.

Other absentees included DB Elijah Campbell and special teamer Isaiah Johnson. Rookie Kenneth Grant and tight end Darren Waller were limited participants. Waller avoided a serious knee injury on a low hit during Monday’s game.

Bengals Grapple With Widespread Ankle Issues

The Dolphins’ upcoming opponent, the Cincinnati Bengals, also faces injury troubles. Their Wednesday report listed five players missing practice with ankle injuries. Notably, three were defensive linemen: B.J. Hill, Kris Jenkins, and Joseph Ossai.

Tight end Noah Fant and receiver Charlie Jones also sat out. Key players like receiver Tee Higgins were limited, in his case due to a concussion. Quarterback Joe Burrow was a full participant despite his known knee issue.

This rash of injuries could impact the Bengals’ defensive front effectiveness. It may influence the Dolphins’ offensive game planning for the weekend. The final week often sees teams managing health with an eye toward the future.

The latest Miami Dolphins injury report signals a shifting roster as the season concludes. The return of Jason Sanders offers a familiar option at kicker, while defensive absences highlight ongoing challenges. Teams now balance health evaluations with competitive preparations for the final outing.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: Is Jason Sanders definitely playing this week?

Not necessarily. The Dolphins designated him to return, but Riley Patterson played well in his place. The team will evaluate both kickers in practice before making a game-day decision on the active roster.

Q2: What is Minkah Fitzpatrick’s injury status?

Head coach Mike McDaniel stated Fitzpatrick is “week to week” with a calf injury. Given the Dolphins are eliminated from playoff contention, the team is expected to be very cautious with his recovery timeline.

Q3: How many Dolphins players missed practice?

Four players were estimated as “did not practice” during Wednesday’s walk-through. They were Jordyn Brooks, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Elijah Campbell, and Isaiah Johnson. Several others were limited or full participants.

Q4: Why are the Bengals dealing with so many ankle injuries?

Five Bengals players missed practice with ankle issues Wednesday. Ankle injuries are common in the NFL due to cutting, tackling, and sudden direction changes. Three of those players are key defensive linemen.

Q5: Will the Dolphins’ playoff chances affect player returns?

No. The Dolphins are out of playoff contention. This reality means the team has no incentive to rush injured players back. The focus will likely shift to evaluating younger talent and protecting player health for the future.