Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill is pushing hard to play in Monday’s game against the Los Angeles Rams, despite missing practice on Friday due to a wrist injury. Head coach Mike McDaniel provided an update on Hill’s condition, stating that the injury has been “heating up,” and the team is giving Hill’s wrist time to “cool down” before making a decision. The situation remains fluid, with the Dolphins taking a day-by-day approach to determine Hill’s availability for the game.
Coach McDaniel struck a cautious tone, saying that he is neither optimistic nor pessimistic about Hill’s chances of playing. He emphasized that Hill is doing everything possible to recover and that if his body allows it, he will take the field on Monday. McDaniel also expressed confidence that Hill would make every effort to be ready, but ultimately, it will depend on how his wrist feels as game day approaches.
On the field, Hill has been a crucial part of the Dolphins’ offense, leading the team with 446 receiving yards. However, his production this season has been lower than expected, marking his worst statistical start since joining Miami in 2022. His performance has improved recently, particularly since quarterback Tua Tagovailoa returned to the lineup. Over the past two games, Hill has averaged 76 receiving yards per game, a significant uptick from the 35 yards per game he averaged in the four games prior to Tagovailoa’s return.
Should Hill be unable to play, the Dolphins would turn to Jaylen Waddle to fill the role of the top receiver. Other players, including Odell Beckham Jr. and rookie Malik Washington, would step into supporting roles. Additionally, veteran receiver River Cracraft, who has been on injured reserve due to a preseason shoulder injury, could make his return for the game, providing another option in the receiving corps.
In addition to Hill’s uncertainty, the Dolphins will also be without starting right tackle Austin Jackson, who suffered a knee injury following the team’s loss to the Buffalo Bills. McDaniel indicated that Jackson’s injury might not require surgery, though it is not expected to be season-ending.
Kendall Lamm and rookie Patrick Paul are both options to replace Jackson at right tackle. With a 2-6 record, the Dolphins are looking to break a three-game losing streak as they face the Rams, who have won their last three games. Miami is also trailing the Denver Broncos by 2.5 games in the race for the seventh seed in the AFC playoff picture.
