Gearing up for an epic Thursday Night Football Week 3 clash against the Buffalo Bills, the Miami Dolphins might already be in trouble.
Heavily relying on their star players to bag a win, the AFC East team’s chances of winning took a hit when wide receiver Jaylen Waddle was designated as questionable for the game against the Bills.
Is Dolphins WR Jaylen Waddle Playing TNF Clash vs. Bills?
Update: NFL Insider Cameron Wolfe reported that Waddle is expected to play tonight and be a “big part” of the Miami offense.
I’m told Dolphins WR Jaylen Waddle is expected to play today and be a big factor in Miami’s offense tonight vs. Bills. They need him.
Not much doubt despite being questionable with minor shoulder injury.
— Cameron Wolfe (@CameronWolfe) September 18, 2025
Earlier this week, Waddle was included in the team’s injury report on Tuesday as a ‘limited participant’. His status remained unchanged on Wednesday.
In an update, NFL insider Ian Rapoport elaborated on Waddle’s status, saying:
“For tonight’s game…the urgency, for the Miami Dolphins, trying to get that first win. Trying to really show up, and, you know…they scored points last week.”
“Obviously, last week it was the defense that was an issue. But it’s all easier if they have Jaylen Waddle out on the field. One of their two star receivers. Tyreek Hill is the other,” he added.
From @GMFB: The #Jets will start QB Tyrod Taylor, #49ers QB Brock Purdy was able to practice on a limited basis, plus #Dolphins WR Jaylen Waddle will test his shoulder pregame, but there is optimism he plays. pic.twitter.com/t3U7qyVbyj
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 18, 2025
Just before the game, the Dolphins received a massive boost when Waddle was cleared to play despite his shoulder injury.
Waddle’s stats make him one of the best options for QB Tua Tagovailoa. The star receiver has recorded nine receptions for 98 yards and one touchdown in the two previous games.
Tight end Darren Waller was ruled out due to his hip injury. He is yet to make his debut with the team. Cornerback Storm Duck (ankle) and safety Ifeatu Melifonwu (calf) are also ruled out.
Defensive tackle Benito Jones (oblique) and linebacker Chop Robinson (knee) are also questionable.
Does Waddle Think the Dolphins Can Bounce Back From a 0-2 Start?
While fans remain worried about the Dolphins’ on-field performance, Waddle maintained that the team isn’t feeling any pressure. “We’re just trying to play the best ball that we can,” Waddle said. “Go out there and compete at a high level, do our jobs and get a win.”
Jaylen Waddle TD. Recommend him to a TON of fantasy managers as a start. Happy to see Waddle get in the end zone. pic.twitter.com/L2ytY8ijTC
— Moody (@EricNMoody) September 14, 2025
He believes their game is correctable. “Definitely something that was self-inflicted that we can go out there prepare for and don’t have it happen again,” Waddle added.
However, with a 2-0 win-loss record, the Bills might not be easy to beat. The Dolphins-Bills TNF clash is scheduled on September 18 at Highmark Stadium in Buffalo.
