In the upcoming NFL season finale on Sunday Night Football between the Buffalo Bills and the Miami Dolphins, the home team might have more key players sidelined than initially anticipated. Despite running back Raheem Mostert and wide receiver Jaylen Waddle dealing with leg injuries for over a week and being listed as ‘Questionable’ after limited practice on Friday, recent reports suggest that both offensive weapons are likely to be downgraded to ‘Out’ for the crucial game that will decide the AFC East Divisional Champion.
#Dolphins RB Raheem Mostert (knee/ankle) and WR Jaylen Waddle (ankle) — both listed as questionable — are not expected to play Sunday night vs. the #Bills, per me and @RapSheet.
Both should be ready for the playoffs. But Miami will try to win the AFC East without them. pic.twitter.com/n0ZQVwkPUD
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) January 7, 2024
Raheem Mostert, grappling with knee and ankle injuries, sat out last week’s game, contributing to the Dolphins’ 56-19 loss to the Baltimore Ravens. The 31-year-old running back has been a significant force this season, amassing 1,012 yards with an average of 4.8 yards per carry and scoring 18 touchdowns. Despite being Miami’s primary running back, Mostert’s absence has opened opportunities for rookie De’Von Achane, who has posted impressive numbers with 744 yards and seven touchdowns. However, Achane is not in peak condition, dealing with both turf toe and rib injuries. Although he is expected to play, the extent of his effectiveness remains uncertain.
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Jaylen Waddle has been hindered by a high ankle sprain sustained in Week 16 against the Dallas Cowboys, causing him to miss last week’s game. Despite some positive signs in Friday’s practice, Waddle’s availability for the AFC East showdown is doubtful. Tyreek Hill is slated to step up in Waddle’s absence but is also nursing an ankle injury, having been spotted in a walking boot during the week. Hill sustained the ankle injury in Week 14 and, despite missing a game, returned to contribute 99 yards against the Cowboys and 76 yards against the Ravens last week. Additionally, Hill faced personal challenges as he had to leave Wednesday’s practice early due to a fire at his Florida home.
With Mostert and Waddle sidelined and Achane and Hill dealing with injuries, the Dolphins face the challenge of maintaining offensive momentum against a formidable Buffalo defense that is currently performing at a high level.
