The Miami Dolphins’ already injury-riddled receiving corps continues to suffer, potentially pushing the team’s decision-makers to scour the waiver wire for new talent.
The Miami Dolphins lost another speedster, Anthony Schwartz, during Friday night’s 24-14 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. A source revealed that Schwartz tore a ligament in his left knee, an injury that occurred in his first preseason game of 2024 after being sidelined for the previous two Anthony Schwartz,
The former American Heritage star, who has struggled to make an impact in the NFL since being drafted in the third round by Auburn in 2021, finished Friday’s game with two receptions for 24 yards before sustaining the injury. Schwartz, who spent most of last season on the Dolphins’ practice squad, is likely facing surgery that could result in either placement on injured reserve or a waiver with an injury settlement.
Wide receiver has been the position most affected by injuries in Miami’s training camp. Both Tyreek Hill (wrist) and Jaylen Waddle (soft tissue) have been dealing with minor injuries that have limited their participation, although they would likely have played through them if it were the regular season.
Both are expected to return to practice as Miami gears up for its Sept. 8 season opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars. However, uncertainty looms over several of Miami’s other receivers. Odell Beckham Jr. has been on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list since the start of training camp due to a pre-existing injury, and he is likely to start the 2024 season on the reserve-PUP list, which would sideline him for at least the first four games.
Head coach Mike McDaniel expressed optimism on Friday that Beckham might begin practicing soon. River Cracraft suffered an undisclosed injury during Miami’s preseason victory over the Washington Commanders and is expected to start 2024 on injured reserve.
Erik Ezukanma missed two of the three preseason games due to injuries, including a left foot injury sustained during last Wednesday’s joint practice with the Buccaneers, and was seen in a walking boot before the preseason finale.
The exact nature of his injury remains unclear, but it could impact his availability for the season opener. Braylon Sanders also missed Friday’s game due to an undisclosed injury. Aside from Hill and Waddle, Braxton Berrios is Miami’s only other experienced veteran receiver, while rookie Malik Washington is likely to secure a spot on the 53-man roster.
The Miami Dolphins must reduce their roster from 90 to 53 players by 4 p.m. on Tuesday, and it’s expected that they will keep five or six receivers on the active roster, with another two on the practice squad.
