The Miami Dolphins’ slumping offense could get a big-time talent infusion in Week 5.
Ahead of the final Miami Dolphins-New England Patriots injury report, Miami head coach Mike McDaniel sounded optimistic that three key starters will all be able to play.
Miami Dolphins Injury Updates Ahead of Patriots Game
The biggest news? McDaniel is hopeful Odell Beckham Jr. will make his Dolphins debut Sunday after spending the first four weeks on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list.
Beckham had an offseason knee procedure that kept him out of the first month of the season. But after a strong first practice Thursday, a healthy Beckham could have a tailored package for the Patriots game.
During his Friday morning news conference, McDaniel said that with a good practice, Beckham could play in a “modified usage” against New England.
McDaniel said that Beckham “did a good job [Thursday]. He looked good.” But he’s tempering his excitement and wants to see how Beckham looks in practice today. “It was a very positive day in that aspect for him.”
The Dolphins listed Beckham (knee) as questionable to play on their final injury report of Week 5.
Beckham’s not the only important weapon the points-starved Dolphins could get back Sunday. The other is running back Raheem Mostert, who hasn’t played since the opener with a chest injury but is expected to Sunday.
“If no setbacks occur today, then there’s a strong chance that we’ll be able to see him vs. Patriots,” per McDaniel.
McDaniel said Mostert got hurt on his first touch of the season. “I can’t go zero to 60 with these guys as much as practice might bait me to do so,” McDaniel said, suggesting Mostert will be on a pitch count if he plays.
The offensive line should get a talent infusion as well. Left tackle Terron Armstead has cleared the concussion protocol and is OK to return to game action.
Cornerback Kendall Fuller is too, McDaniel said.
Safety Jordan Poyer, however, will not play with a shin injury. Expect Marcus Maye to start in Week 5.
Finally, Skylar Thompson appears on track to be the Dolphins’ QB2 Sunday — even though he’s officially questionable for the game. The Dolphins cut backup quarterback Tim Boyle late Friday.
Miami Dolphins vs. New England Patriots Injury Report
Dolphins
Out
S Jordan Poyer (shin)
Doubtful
None
Questionable
QB Skylar Thompson (ribs)
WR Odell Beckham Jr. (knee)
CB Cam Smith (hamstring)
Patriots
Out
C David Andrews (shoulder, IR)
OT Caedan Wallace (ankle, IR)
Doubtful
LB Sione Takitaki (knee)
Questionable
S Kyle Dugger (ankle)
WR KJ Osborn (shoulder)
S Jabrill Peppers (shoulder)
WR Kendrick Bourne (knee)
LB Anfernee Jennings (shoulder)
CB Jonathan Jones (shoulder)
G Michael Jordan (ankle)
C Nick Leverett (ankle)
OT Vederian Lowe (knee)
S Marte Mapu (calf)
G Layden Robinson (ankle/wrist)
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.