Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle was injured in practice earlier this month and missed time as a result.
Waddle, who is battling a midsection injury, has returned to workouts on a limited basis, though his status for Week 1 remains up in the air.
The 2021 first-round pick was limited in practice today but told reporters afterwards that he is hopeful he’ll be ready for the season opener.
“Waddle said he’s felt good working out himself yet trusts Dolphins medical staff that they will do what’s best for him in holding him back,” tweeted NFL Network’s Cameron Wolfe.
Dolphins WR Jaylen Waddle (midsection) has optimism that he will be ready to go Week 1 vs. Chargers despite missing last 2 practice weeks.
Waddle said he’s felt good working out himself yet trusts Dolphins medical staff that they will do what’s best for him in holding him back. pic.twitter.com/BqpBWufkOc
— Cameron Wolfe (@CameronWolfe) August 29, 2023
Waddle has posted back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons to begin his NFL career. Last year, he caught 75 passes for 1,356 yards and eight touchdowns.
The most noteworthy change in production for Waddle from Year 1 to Year 2 was his increase in yards per catch. As a rookie in 2021, Waddle hauled in 104 receptions but for only 1,015 yards, a shade under 10 per grab.
In his second year, the former Alabama star averaged 18.1 yards per reception, the highest mark in the NFL. Together with Tyreek Hill, Waddle formed one of the most potent wide receiver duos in the league.