The Miami Dolphins are facing early-season challenges as linebacker Bradley Chubb will start the regular season on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, meaning he will miss at least the first four games. Head coach Mike McDaniel confirmed this on Monday, marking a significant blow to the Dolphins’ defense. Chubb, who tore his ACL on December 31, has not participated in any of the team’s offseason activities.
Chubb’s absence is a setback for a Dolphins team that has invested heavily in bolstering its defensive front. In the offseason, Miami used first-round and fifth-round picks to draft linebackers Chop Robinson and Mo Kamara, and re-signed defensive lineman Emmanuel Ogbah to enhance their pass rush. The team is also counting on the return of starting linebacker Jaelan Phillips, who is expected to be ready for the season opener after recovering from a torn Achilles injury.
On the offensive side, the Dolphins’ plans for a potent passing attack are also facing uncertainty. Odell Beckham Jr., who signed with Miami in March to fill the role of a third receiver alongside Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, has yet to practice due to an undisclosed injury. Coach McDaniel mentioned that Beckham’s status for the start of the season is still to be determined. The trio of Hill, Waddle, and Beckham was expected to be one of the most formidable receiving corps in the league, but their potential remains untested in official gameplay.
The Dolphins’ offensive line is also dealing with injury concerns, as starting right guard Isaiah Wynn will begin the season on the PUP list, joining reserve linebacker Cameron Goode. These absences highlight the depth issues Miami may face as they navigate the early part of the season.
With key players sidelined, the Dolphins will need to rely on their depth and the performance of new additions to maintain competitiveness in a challenging AFC East division. How they adapt to these early setbacks could play a crucial role in their quest for playoff contention.
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