Dolphins linebacker Anthony Walker Jr. and cornerback Kendall Fuller are unlikely to play in Thursday night’s game against the Packers (8:20 p.m., NBC). Fuller remains in concussion protocol and is set to miss his third consecutive game, though the team has not disclosed his progress through the protocol. In recent games, Storm Duck has taken over as the third cornerback behind Jalen Ramsey and Kader Kohou.
Walker suffered a strained hamstring during Sunday’s win over New England. While the injury isn’t long-term, head coach Mike McDaniel said Monday that Walker will likely be unavailable for Thursday. Tyrel Dodson is expected to start alongside Jordyn Brooks at inside linebacker. Dodson impressed against the Patriots, notching an interception and stepping up after Walker’s injury. McDaniel praised Dodson, saying, “I can’t say enough about what he’s been doing since he’s been here.”
Left tackle Terron Armstead, who has been playing through a knee injury, emerged from Sunday’s game without setbacks. He hasn’t practiced in two weeks but continues to suit up on game day.
McDaniel also addressed other team updates:
- Fullback Alec Ingold, returning from a calf injury, was limited to nine offensive snaps against the Patriots. McDaniel said the game’s flow allowed them to avoid overusing him.
- Backup quarterback Skylar Thompson was pulled after just two snaps Sunday, one of which resulted in a fumbled exchange returned for a Patriots touchdown. Tua Tagovailoa re-entered the game shortly after. While McDaniel expressed confidence in Thompson, he called the unit’s performance “unacceptable” and below the team’s standards, noting that everyone, including coaches, shares responsibility.
On other topics, McDaniel declined to directly address interest in impending free-agent quarterback Daniel Jones, calling him “talented,” and clarified that general manager Chris Grier has the final say on the 53-man roster, though decisions are typically collaborative.
McDaniel also commented on Miami’s recent struggles in the run game, citing the Patriots’ defense as a factor. The Dolphins managed just 65 yards on 24 carries (2.7 yards per carry) Sunday. He explained that the team is adjusting its strategy to include more quick passes when matchups favor the passing game over the run.
