Dolphins vs. Bengals: Rookie QB Debut Headlines Injury-Riddled Week 16 Clash
There may not be playoff implications riding on this one, but there’s still plenty to watch when the Miami Dolphins (6-8) host the Cincinnati Bengals (4-10) in Week 16. With both teams out of the postseason picture, the focus shifts to development, evaluation-and in Miami’s case, a glimpse into the future.
Quinn Ewers Era Begins in Miami
All eyes in South Florida will be on rookie quarterback Quinn Ewers, who is set to make his first NFL start. The Dolphins are handing the keys to the former first-round pick, and while this isn’t a must-win scenario, it’s a critical opportunity to see what they have in the young signal-caller. Zach Wilson will be his backup, while Tua Tagovailoa, still working his way back, will serve as the emergency third-stringer.
For a team that’s been searching for long-term answers at quarterback, this start could be more than just a late-season experiment-it might be a preview of what’s to come in 2026.
Injuries Continue to Shape the Narrative
Injuries have been a recurring theme for both squads this season, and Week 16 is no exception. The Dolphins got some encouraging news on Friday: tight end Darren Waller, who had been questionable with a knee issue, is cleared to play.
Waller was a bright spot in last week’s loss to Pittsburgh, hauling in eight catches for 66 yards and two touchdowns. His presence should be a welcome safety valve for Ewers in his debut.
Also set to suit up for Miami are running back De’Von Achane (ribs), rookie running back Ollie Gordon (ankle), defensive tackle Kenneth Grant (shoulder), and five others who had been dealing with various ailments throughout the week.
However, the Dolphins will be without safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, who’s been a mainstay in the secondary all season. Fitzpatrick will miss his first game of the year due to a calf injury, a significant blow for a defense that’s already been stretched thin.
Linebacker Jordyn Brooks (foot/knee), defensive back Elijah Campbell (ankle/knee), kicker Jason Myers (hip), and three others are listed as questionable. That leaves Miami’s depth chart in flux heading into Sunday.
Bengals Also Battling the Injury Bug
Cincinnati isn’t any healthier. Quarterback Joe Burrow, still recovering from his knee injury, will dress but isn’t expected to play. Running back Semaje Perine (ankle) and defensive lineman Shemar Stewart (knee) are also cleared to go, along with four others.
But the Bengals have their own list of question marks. Wide receiver Tee Higgins remains in concussion protocol and is listed as questionable.
Defensive tackle B.J. Hill (ankle) and safety PJ Jules (ankle) are also uncertain for the matchup.
What to Watch
With both teams limping toward the finish line, the spotlight naturally shifts to player development and future planning. For the Dolphins, Ewers’ performance will be dissected closely-not just by fans, but by the front office looking to determine whether he’s the guy to build around. Waller’s return gives him a reliable target, and the presence of Achane and Gordon in the backfield should help take some pressure off the rookie.
On the Bengals' side, it’s about continuing to evaluate depth and younger talent while navigating a season that hasn’t gone as planned. With Burrow sidelined and Higgins uncertain, expect Cincinnati to lean on its run game and test some of its younger defensive personnel.
Both teams are banged up, but that doesn’t mean this game lacks meaning. For players fighting for roster spots, for rookies looking to prove themselves, and for coaching staffs trying to set the tone for 2026, Week 16 is still very much worth watching.