The Miami Dolphins may not have some significant star players for Sunday’s season-ending showdown with the Buffalo Bills.
Miami listed 19 players on Thursday’s extensive injury report ahead of a game that will determine the AFC East champion. Tua Tagovailoa practiced in full after hurting his left shoulder last week, but a few key contributors sat out.
Running back Raheem Mostert, wide receiver Jaylen Waddle, and cornerback Xavien Howard each missed practice for the second straight day. Tyreek Hill was away from the team after his home caught fire Wednesday.
Dolphins RB Raheem Mostert, WR Jaylen Waddle and CB Xavien Howard didn’t practice for 2nd straight day as part of long injury report. Tyreek Hill absence was for personal reasons.
RB De’Von Achane said he’s good to go. G Robert Hunt said he’s hopeful to play. pic.twitter.com/0wtLs98bYr
— Cameron Wolfe (@CameronWolfe) January 4, 2024
Miami’s offense missed Mostert and Waddle in last Sunday’s blowout loss to the Baltimore Ravens.
Despite sitting out Week 17’s game, Mostert still leads the NFL with 18 rushing touchdowns. The 31-year-old also solidified the first 1,000-yard rushing season and Pro Bowl nod of his career.
De’Von Achane was a limited participant on Wednesday and Thursday due to toe and rib injuries, but the rookie running back expects to play Sunday. He tallied 137 yards and a score on 18 touches in Mostert’s absence last Sunday.
Waddle reached 1,000 receiving yards for the third consecutive season while averaging 14.1 yards per reception. His status is unclear due to an ankle injury, but Hill should return for Sunday’s game.
Howard played just four snaps before leaving last weekend’s contest with an ankle injury. Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel said he’s not planning on the four-time Pro Bowler playing in Week 18.
Miami’s defense will also be without star edge rusher Bradley Chubb, who is out for the season with a torn ACL. On a brighter note, star offensive tackle Terron Armstead was a limited participant in Thursday’s practice after sitting out Wednesday.
Sunday’s game will determine whether Miami hosts a first-round playoff matchup as the No. 2 seed or opens the postseason on the road. The final game of the regular season starts at 8:20 p.m. ET on NBC.