The Miami Dolphins got by just fine without wide receiver Jaylen Waddle in Week 3 against the Denver Broncos, but they’re going to need him in action for some of their tougher matchups in the near future.
Fortunately, it sounds like the 24-year-old will indeed be back in action in no time. Waddle has cleared concussion protocol.
Dolphins WR Jaylen Waddle has cleared concussion protocol.
— Daniel Oyefusi (@DanielOyefusi) September 28, 2023
It’s big news for the Dolphins ahead of their Week 4 game against the Buffalo Bills. The Bills are perhaps the biggest threats to the Dolphins in the AFC East right now, adding some importance to the upcoming tilt.
As things currently stand, the Dolphins are the only undefeated team in the division at 3-0, and the Bills are the only other team with a winning record at 2-1. It’s early, but the AFC East hasn’t been quite as intimidating as many thought it would be this season.
Miami is looking to keep things moving in the right direction after its historic win over Denver. The Dolphins dropped 70 points on the Broncos in Week 3 due in part to a massive rushing attack. They did just as much damage through the air, but with Waddle sidelined, the squad had its best rushing game of the season.
On the ground, the Dolphins finished with 350 yards and five touchdowns. Through the air, they had 376 yards and five more touchdowns.
Week 4 will likely be a different animal for Miami after Week 3’s walk in the park. But if the Dolphins can start the season 4-0 (including 2-0 against AFC East opponents), they’re going to be in good shape to control the division all season long.
Waddle has eight receptions and 164 receiving yards this season across his two appearances. He’s typically very reliable from an availability standpoint, so with any luck, he won’t miss another game this season.
Rising star Tua Tagovailoa, an early MVP candidate this season, is certainly thrilled that Waddle is out of concussion protocol, especially since the quarterback knows what it’s like to go through that process. The Tagovailoa-Waddle duo will be back soon, and that’s nothing but good news for a Dolphins team that looks like a legitimate Super Bowl contender.
