The Miami Dolphins, already dealing with a slew of injuries, might find themselves shorthanded once more as they prepare to face the Buffalo Bills in a Sunday night showdown.
According to NFL Network’s Cameron Wolfe, key players like running back Raheem Mostert (nursing knee and ankle issues), cornerback Xavien Howard (dealing with a foot injury), and wide receiver Jaylen Waddle (recovering from an ankle problem) were notably absent from Thursday’s practice. Notably, star receiver Tyreek Hill, battling an ankle injury himself, also missed practice due to a personal matter.
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
Adding to the mix, a significant incident unfolded at Tyreek Hill’s residence in Southwest Ranches on Wednesday. A massive fire broke out, fortunately resulting in no injuries. An ensuing investigation revealed that the fire had accidentally ignited when a child within the house played with a cigarette lighter.
Last Sunday, the Dolphins were already without Waddle and Mostert in a critical Week 17 clash against the Baltimore Ravens, which ended in a disappointing 56-19 loss. The Ravens’ victory secured them the top seed in the AFC, thwarting Miami’s hopes of clinching their first AFC East division title since 2008.
With everything hanging in the balance, the winner of Sunday’s game between Miami and Buffalo will not only claim the division crown but also secure the coveted No. 2 seed in the conference. However, if Miami falls short, they will slip to the No. 6 seed, setting up a Wild Card Round clash against the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs.
On the other hand, should the Bills falter against Miami, their playoff berth hinges on a combination of outcomes, including a potential Pittsburgh Steelers loss or tie to the Baltimore Ravens, a tie between the Indianapolis Colts and Houston Texans, and a Jacksonville Jaguars loss or tie against the Tennessee Titans.
With playoff scenarios hanging in the balance, Sunday night’s game promises to be a pivotal and potentially defining moment for both the Dolphins and the Bills.