As the New York Jets get set to host the Miami Dolphins at MetLife Stadium in Week 14, both teams are dealing with their fair share of bumps and bruises. The final injury reports offer some clarity on who’s trending toward suiting up and who won’t be available come kickoff - and for two AFC East squads trying to find late-season momentum, every body counts.
Let’s break down what we know heading into Sunday.
Miami Dolphins (5-7): Mostly Healthy, But A Few Key Question Marks
The Dolphins enter the weekend without any players officially ruled out, which is a win in itself this deep into the season. But they’re not entirely in the clear.
Three players are listed as questionable, including starting offensive lineman Aaron Brewer, who’s dealing with both ankle and neck issues. Brewer’s availability could be significant, especially with the Jets’ pass rush heating up in recent weeks. If he’s limited or can’t go, Miami’s protection could be tested early and often.
In the secondary, Elijah Campbell (ankle) and Ifeatu Melifonwu (thumb) are also questionable. Neither is a headliner, but depth in the defensive backfield is always important, particularly against a Jets team that’s been experimenting with its quarterback rotation and may try to stretch the field.
On the positive side, several key contributors are good to go. Starting right tackle Austin Jackson (toe) will play, a big boost for Miami’s offensive line continuity.
Rasul Douglas (foot), who’s been a steady presence at corner, is also in. Fullback Alec Ingold (neck) and offensive lineman Benito Jones (ankle) have been cleared as well, giving head coach Mike McDaniel a relatively full deck to work with.
New York Jets (3-9): Banged Up and Shorthanded
The Jets, meanwhile, are limping into Week 14 - both literally and figuratively.
Three players have already been ruled out, including rookie corner Jarvis Brownlee Jr. (hip), linebacker Marcelino McCray-Ball (hamstring), and quarterback Justin Fields (knee). Fields’ absence means the Jets will once again turn to their revolving door at QB, a position that’s been a storyline all season long.
Linebacker Cam Jones is listed as doubtful with a hip injury, making it unlikely he suits up. That further thins out a linebacker corps that’s already had to dig deep into its depth chart.
Two defensive backs - Tony Adams (groin) and Qwan'tez Stiggers (concussion) - are questionable, though both practiced fully on Friday. That’s a good sign for their availability, but the Jets will likely wait until game day to make the final call. With Brownlee already out, they can’t afford to lose more bodies in the secondary.
There is some good news on the edge: defensive ends Will McDonald IV and Jermaine Johnson II, both dealing with ankle injuries, are expected to play. Johnson in particular has been a bright spot in an otherwise tough season for New York, and his presence could be key in pressuring Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.
What It All Means
For Miami, this is a chance to build some momentum with a relatively healthy roster. The offensive line is intact, and the defense has enough key pieces available to stay aggressive. If Brewer can go, the Dolphins should be able to execute their game plan without major adjustments.
The Jets, on the other hand, are in survival mode. Injuries to the secondary and linebacker groups could open up opportunities for Miami’s offense, especially if Tagovailoa gets time in the pocket. And with Fields out, the quarterback situation remains unsettled - a familiar and frustrating theme for Gang Green this season.
Both teams are playing for pride at this point, but the Dolphins still have a mathematical shot at a late-season push. The Jets?
They’re trying to find something - anything - to build on for next year. Sunday’s matchup might not carry playoff implications, but it’s a test of depth, resilience, and who can make the most of what’s left in the tank.