Dolphins' Jaylen Waddle, Jaelan Phillips Limited by Minor Injuries in Joint Bears Practice

The Miami Dolphins are cautiously managing injuries as they prepare for the 2025-26 NFL season, following a difficult 2024-25 campaign marred by health setbacks. Star wide receiver Jaylen Waddle is currently dealing with a minor injury sustained during a joint practice with the Chicago Bears, leading head coach Mike McDaniel to withhold him from playing in recent preseason games to avoid exacerbating the issue. Waddle's injury is not expected to cause a long absence, with his return anticipated by the next preseason game against the Detroit Lions. Linebacker Jaelan Phillips is also recovering from a left knee injury and is being held out of games to prevent further damage, with hopes of resuming play soon. The Dolphins aim to avoid the injury struggles that hindered key players like quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who suffered multiple concussions in the previous season, and wide receiver Tyreek Hill, whose performance also declined. With a focus on health and strategic rest during preseason, Miami hopes to regain the high-powered offense that marked the start of the 2023 season and build a successful era under McDaniel.