The Dolphins might encounter an additional challenge against the Jets if they have to play without Tyreek Hill.

The potential implications of Tyreek Hill’s injury on the Dolphins.

The Miami Dolphins confront a significant challenge as they prepare to host the New York Jets on Sunday. This challenge extends beyond contending with one of the league’s top defenses or avoiding their first losing streak of the season; their primary obstacle lies in achieving these objectives without the presence of All-Pro Tyreek Hill. Hill, the NFL’s leading receiver, suffered a left ankle injury during Monday’s loss to the Tennessee Titans, limiting his participation to a season-low 47% of Miami’s offensive snaps. As the Dolphins gear up to face the Jets, Hill’s status is labeled “day-to-day,” presenting Coach Mike McDaniel with the unprecedented dilemma of formulating a game plan without the star player.

Hill’s absence, if realized, would mark a departure from his streak of not missing a game since joining the Dolphins last offseason. He currently leads the NFL in receiving yards with 3,252 in that span and is on track to break Calvin Johnson’s single-season record of 1,964 receiving yards. Hill’s impressive 1,542 receiving yards this season, averaging 119 per game, position him to potentially achieve this record with 423 yards needed over the last four games.

The Dolphins experienced a taste of life without Hill on Monday, where quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s performance saw a decline in yards per attempt without his top receiver on the field. Despite a robust run game, the absence of Hill and center Connor Williams, who suffered a torn ACL, disrupted the usually potent offense. Tagovailoa admitted the challenges posed by these key absences, emphasizing the physical nature of the sport and the unpredictability of injuries.

As Hill has not participated in practice this week, McDaniel emphasizes a cautious approach to manage his health effectively. Acknowledging Hill’s importance to the team, McDaniel assures that they will prioritize his well-being to prevent further injury. Despite the challenges, McDaniel expresses confidence in Hill’s mindset and willingness to prioritize health over pushing through potential risks.

With Hill’s status uncertain, the Dolphins turn to dynamic receiver Jaylen Waddle, who has remained productive, amassing 822 yards and three touchdowns this season. Waddle’s contributions will be crucial, especially against a Jets secondary that has allowed the second-fewest passing yards in the league this season. The Dolphins, leading the AFC East by two games over the Buffalo Bills, understand the significance of the upcoming game, with a potential division clinch on the horizon if they secure a victory and Buffalo falters against the Cowboys.

Tagovailoa acknowledges the challenges of Hill’s potential absence but highlights the team’s collective understanding of roles and the opportunities it presents for other players to step up. The game against the Jets carries heightened importance as the Dolphins aim to solidify their division lead and make strategic adjustments in the absence of their star receiver.