5 days ago
Mike McDaniel offers updates on 10 injured Dolphins
Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel provided an injury update to the media on Tuesday, following a joint practice and preseason game against the Chicago Bears that ended in a 24-24 tie.
Among the players currently out of action are three of the team's biggest names.
Safety Elijah Campbell is considered day-to-day with what appeared to be a leg injury sustained during Sunday's game in Chicago. McDaniel also noted that rookie safety Dante Trader Jr. and third-year cornerback Cam Smith are expected to return to drills this week during joint practices with the Detroit Lions.
The secondary remains an area of concern for Miami, and the team needs all the depth it can get. Smith, a second-round pick in the 2023 NFL draft, is fighting for a roster spot after two underwhelming seasons. As a rookie, he played just 20 defensive snaps. Last season, he appeared in six games, recording 133 defensive snaps, 16 tackles, and no passes defended.
Trader, a fifth-round pick in the 2025 draft, is expected to participate in drills this week and could see game action in the upcoming preseason matchup in Detroit. He may contribute on special teams while providing depth at safety.
McDaniel also gave an update on running back Alexander Mattison, who recently suffered a season-ending neck injury. 'He's doing well,' McDaniel said, adding that the injury is 'not career-ending.'
In response to Mattison's absence for the 2025 season, the Dolphins signed running backs Mike Boone and Aaron Shampklin. Rookie Ollie Gordon II had a strong preseason performance against the Bears and could emerge as the team's third running back. He may also challenge Jaylen Wright for meaningful carries and an increased workload, especially in short-yardage situations.
On the offensive line, McDaniel indicated that depth players guard Liam Eichenberg and center Andrew Meyer are not expected to return in the immediate future. With an already thin offensive line, the Dolphins will need to explore other viable options beyond their starters.
McDaniel told media to not expect tight end Darren Waller to participate in joint practice with the Lions, stating he doesn't want him rushing into things following coming out of retirement. The tight end room is another group that needs all hands on deck, and is light in depth.
Injury troubles have plagued the Dolphins this summer, which included a season-ending leg injury suffered by cornerback Kader Kohou earlier in training camp. Miami will look to avoid further setbacks this week as the Dolphins prepare to face the Lions.
This article originally appeared on Dolphins Wire: Mike McDaniel offers updates on 10 injured Dolphins
