Dolphins get defensive scares in impressive win
Miami had their most impressive performance so far in the preseason with their win Thursday night against Atlanta. They did not leave the game unscathed, however, as some key defensive players left the game early with injuries.
The Dolphins had their best all around game this preseason in their matchup against the Falcons this past Thursday in Orlando. Unfortunately for the Dolphins, it didn’t come without a few injury scares, most notably from the defensive side. Fortunately, however, it doesn’t look too severe for Miami.
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Miami’s DL Terrence Fede might feel differently as he appeared to suffer the Dolphins’ worst injury of the evening. Fede suffered from a sprained MCL in the first half of the game and did not return. There are injuries to the knee that are far worse that Fede could have suffered so, in some sense, he is fortunate. However, Fede has been in a huge battle with teammate Chris McCain for what will likely be the final defensive end spot on the final 53-man roster.
Sprained MCL’s generally result in a 2-4 week estimated absence for NFL players from physical contact. Although a relatively short time frame, Fede’s injury could lead to the Dolphins electing to cut the third-year player out of Marist College. It’s worth noting, however, that Chris McCain suffered a shoulder injury in the game as well and did not return, but all reports indicate that he will be fine.
The scariest injury of the evening for the Dolphins and their fans came when Ndamukong Suh left the game with an apparent ankle injury in the first half. Dolphins fans held their breath waiting to hear the fate of their Pro Bowl defensive lineman. They were able to breath a sigh of relief, thankfully, as the injury was reported to not be serious. Suh and head coach Adam Gase even added that he could have likely returned if the game was more meaningful.
Some good news for the Dolphins defensive line from Thursday night was the return of Cameron Wake. Wake made his first appearance this preseason since rehabbing from a surgically repaired Achilles tendon that he injured last season. He had just 5 snaps in his return with zero sacks or tackles, but did record a QB hurry. Wake admits he’s still not 100% but it’s a positive sign to finally see him out there.
Like Suh, Dolphins starting LB Jelani Jenkins also suffered a minor ankle injury from Thursday night’s game. While the ankle injury is considered minor, Jenkins recently underwent a knee scope that will result in Jenkins missing some time. How long Jenkins will be sidelined remains unclear, but there’s a good chance he will not be ready by week 1 of the regular season.
The Dolphins have one preseason game remaining against Tennessee before their week 1 matchup against Seattle. Miami’s preseason finale against the Titans will be played this Thursday night. The Dolphins plan to sit a majority of their starters in this game to help them rest up in anticipation for the regular season. Do not expect any of the players mentioned to be active for Thursday night’s game.