Life just got a little harder for one of the Miami Dolphins’ most underperforming units ahead of Week 9
One unit for the Miami Dolphins has been sorely missing some bright spots. And now the best part of it will be missing in Week 9.
The list of “pros” for the Miami Dolphins’ special teams unit this season is, frankly, a bit too short. The Dolphins have struggled in the kicking game — they’ve churned kickers, they’ve struggled covering kicks, and more.
The best part of the third phase of the game for Miami thus far this season has arguably been running back Jaylen Wright. Wright has not seized the opportunity in Miami’s backfield offensively amid the injury to De’Von Achane. But he has become an impactful returner who has made several splash plays on kickoff return. But now, as he builds momentum in that phase of the game, Miami must pivot. Wright will reportedly be inactive in Week 9 due to a quad injury.
Miami Dolphins running back Jaylen Wright will reportedly be inactive in Week 9 versus Lions
Wright ranks ninth in the NFL in yards per kickoff return (27.6 yards), but is fourth among returners with 15+ return opportunities on the season. He’s nearly broken to returns for touchdowns — one in Week 1 against the Las Vegas Raiders and another in Week 8 against the New England Patriots that saw him pulled down by a foot in the open field. Wright’s size and explosiveness make him a good fit for the role — but a quad injury has him reportedly set to miss Sunday’s game against the Lions.
Will wide receiver Malik Washington step into the role? Or rookie wide receiver Kevin Coleman Jr.? Those are the other names the currently populate the depth chart with returner responsibilities. Washington is a more accomplished returner but Coleman Jr. would probably benefit more from the opportunity. And given how important Washington has become as a wide receiver in this year’s offense? It may not be a bad idea to let the rookie get the first crack.
Either way, special teams has been tough sledding for the Dolphins this season. It just got a little tougher for this week against Detroit.
Miami Dolphins News