Final Roster Moves and Key Player Updates

The Miami Dolphins made their final roster adjustments for the season on Saturday, elevating linebacker Derrick McLendon and running back Jeff Wilson Jr. from the practice squad. These moves signal a shift in strategy as the team prepares for its final game of the season against the New England Patriots.

Jeff Wilson Jr.’s elevation marks his second promotion of the season, which suggests that De’Von Achane is unlikely to play due to a shoulder injury. Achane, who led the NFL in per carry average (5.7) and was the Dolphins’ MVP this season, is listed as doubtful for Sunday’s game. If he doesn’t play, he will finish the season with the third-highest rushing total in team history at 1,350 yards. He needs just 23 more yards to surpass Ricky Williams’ 2003 record of 1,853 yards, which remains the team’s single-season rushing mark.

Derrick McLendon, a standout during training camp, has been elevated for the second consecutive week but is still waiting for his first NFL appearance. He wasn’t active for the Tampa Bay game because the Dolphins needed to keep another offensive lineman on the active roster after center Aaron Brewer was ruled out with a neck injury.

Defensive line coach Sean Ryan praised McLendon’s athleticism, speed, and work ethic, calling him a positive influence on teammates and coaches. His potential makes him an intriguing prospect for the future.

Injuries and Questionable Players

Several key players are questionable for Sunday’s game. Edge rushers Chop Robinson and Quinton Bell are both dealing with injuries—Robinson is in the later stages of concussion protocol, while Bell is recovering from an illness. On the offensive side, receivers Jaylen Waddle (ribs), right tackle Austin Jackson (groin and back issues), and center Aaron Brewer (neck) are also uncertain to play. Waddle said he is unsure if he will be able to suit up, while Brewer practiced fully on Friday.

Defensively, the Dolphins will be without safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, who is missing his third straight game due to a calf injury. Linebacker Jordyn Brooks, the NFL’s leading tackler, is questionable with a hamstring injury but plans to play. Kicker Jason Sanders remains on injured reserve, meaning Riley Patterson will complete the season as the team’s kicker.

Coaching and Draft Implications

Mike McDaniel’s job security has been a topic of discussion among national outlets. While some reports suggest his return next season is a “coin toss,” others indicate signs point toward him staying. The Dolphins’ performance in the final game could impact their draft position.

Miami (7-9) entered Week 18 ranked 11th in draft order. If they lose to the Patriots and the Saints, Chiefs, and Bengals all win, the Dolphins could jump over three 6-10 teams to secure a higher pick. However, they realistically cannot drop worse than 13th.

Player Performance and Bonuses

One concern this season has been the regression of edge rusher Chop Robinson. With just 21 tackles and four sacks in 417 defensive snaps, his pass rush win rate of 8.8% ranks 125th among NFL edge players. Pro Football Focus rated him 100th out of 113 qualifying edge players, suggesting he may not be a starter.

On the other hand, safety Ashtyn Davis has played 76% of Miami’s defensive snaps, putting him in position to earn a $500,000 bonus for playing 60% of the team’s snaps. Davis praised the organization for giving him opportunities instead of sitting him. His bonus depends on the Dolphins finishing in the top 25 in points allowed, which they currently rank 21st.

Some of Bradley Chubb’s bonuses are tied to the team finishing in the top 20 in points allowed, adding another layer of importance to the final game.