The Miami Dolphins are expecting to have a replenished offensive line for their big-time AFC matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday in Germany, with head coach Mike McDaniel saying Friday that it looks like tackle Terron Armstead and center Connor Williams will be able to return from injury.
Dolphins HC Mike McDaniel tells reporters in Germany he’s “very optimistic” LT Terron Armstead will be available Sunday vs. Chiefs. Good signs for center Connor Williams to go too. RG Robert Hunt will be be OUT.
— Cameron Wolfe (@CameronWolfe) November 3, 2023
Unfortunately, guard Robert Hunt will not be able to play, but having Armstead and Williams back should provide quarterback Tua Tagovailoa with improved pass protection in what could become a shootout against Patrick Mahomes and company.
Armstead last played on Oct. 1 in a disappointing loss to the Buffalo Bills and has been on injured reserve with a knee injury. His 21-day practice window was just opened this week, so his return may be coming sooner than anticipated. The 32-year-old, who also dealt with injuries in training camp, is arguably Miami’s best lineman, and his return should provide a boost to the league’s top offense.
Williams has a groin injury and did not play last week in a 31-17 win against the New England Patriots. Hunt injured his hamstring against the Patriots. According to McDaniel, Robert Jones will start at left guard, which seemingly means that Lester Cotton will start at right guard in Hunt’s place.
McDaniel also said Rob Jones would be the starting LG. So, Lester Cotton would seemingly be the option to replace Rob Hunt at RG after doing so vs. the Patriots. https://t.co/PaZwhc1WNc
— Daniel Oyefusi (@DanielOyefusi) November 3, 2023
The Dolphins head into the game with 14 players listed on their injury report, including running back Raheem Mostert and wide receiver Jaylen Waddle, but both of those offensive stars should be good to go.
The injuries to the offensive line have not slowed down the Dolphins in the slightest. The unit leads the NFL in total yards, passing yards, rushing yards and points scored per game. It also ranks first in yards per carry and has allowed only 12 sacks, which is tied for third-fewest in the league.
Both teams enter the contest with 6-2 records and leading their respective divisions, Miami in the AFC East and the Chiefs in the AFC West. They are among the favorites to reach the Super Bowl, and the game in Frankfurt could be a playoff preview.
On the defensive side of the ball, star cornerback Jalen Ramsey returned from injury last week to make his long-awaited Dolphins debut, so Miami should be at almost full strength for one of the biggest games so far in the NFL season.
