The Miami Dolphins eked out a last-second victory against the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 1, but they didn’t emerge from Sunday’s game totally unscathed.
Wide receiver Jaylen Waddle entered Miami’s medical tent during the first half of today’s win but eventually emerged and finished the Dolphins’ victory.
What happened to Waddle in Week 1, and is he in any danger of missing time?
What Happened to Jaylen Waddle?
Waddle took a hard hit after making his first catch of the season in the second quarter of Sunday’s win. Referees told Miami’s medical staff that Waddle needed to be evaluated for a concussion.
Although Waddle appeared to protest, he entered the blue medical tent along the Dolphins’ sideline. His stint inside was brief, and Waddle returned to the field without missing many snaps.
The former first-round pick ultimately caught all five of his targets for 109 yards in Miami’s 20-17 victory.
Waddle suffered a concussion in Week 2 of the 2023 season. He exited that week’s game against the New England Patriots, then missed Week 3 — Miami’s memorable 70-20 win against the Denver Broncos.
Waddle subsequently went down with a high ankle sprain in Week 16. He was sidelined for the final two weeks of the regular season but returned for the Dolphins’ Wild Card Round playoff loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.
Jaylen Waddle Fantasy Analysis
Miami’s offense was one of the most concentrated in the league last season. That’s why Waddle is considered a fantasy lineup lock.
That remains the case when he’s active, but it was clear from the jump that De’Von Achane’s usage in the passing game is set to expand, and Jonnu Smith earned a few early looks against the Jags, as well.
Still, Waddle projects as a featured member of this offense, health permitting.