Jaylen Waddle’s Injury Casts Shadow Over Dolphins’ AFC East Title Pursuit Against Ravens
Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle, who is recovering from a high ankle sprain, is unlikely to participate in Sunday’s game against the Baltimore Ravens, according to a source informed ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Thursday. The injury occurred during last Sunday’s triumph over the Dallas Cowboys.
In that game, Waddle made a significant impact with a 50-yard reception from quarterback Tua Tagovailoa during the Dolphins’ opening offensive drive. However, he was limited to only 28 snaps due to eye and ankle injuries. Despite the setback, this catch propelled him to a season total of 1,014 receiving yards, marking his third consecutive 1,000-yard season at the start of his career—a franchise record.
With Waddle sidelined, the Dolphins are likely to turn to Cedrick Wilson Jr., their third-leading receiver, to fill his role. Other options, such as Braxton Berrios, River Cracraft, or midseason acquisition Chase Claypool, could also see increased playing time on Sunday.
Notably, Waddle and Tyreek Hill (1,641 yards) dominate as the team’s leading receivers, with no other player surpassing 245 receiving yards this season. Despite this challenge, Miami’s coaching staff has prepared for such scenarios by cross-training players in multiple positions since offseason practices.
“We try to make sure that we always are moving guys around and getting guys work with things so we all can be connected for the time that we’re going to have to show up and do what’s required for Sunday,” explained offensive coordinator Frank Smith. “So again, we have contingencies to work through so we can make sure that we’re putting our guys in the best position possible.”
Despite securing their second consecutive playoff berth with the previous Sunday’s victory, the Dolphins have an opportunity to clinch their first AFC East title since 2008. This would require a win over the Ravens in Week 17, coupled with a Bills loss to the New England Patriots. Should the Dolphins win their remaining games, they would claim the top overall seed in the AFC.
On the opposing side, the Ravens have the chance to secure the No. 1 seed in the AFC by defeating the Dolphins on Sunday.
