Sunday’s game between the Miami Dolphins and New England Patriots only hold stakes for one of the two AFC East rivals, as the Dolphins are eliminated from playoff contention despite a solid 6-3 record since Week 8. So, as the Pats battle for the AFC’s No. 1 seed in the final week of the season, don’t expect Miami’s stars to battle through injuries to stop them.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, neither running back De’Von Achane nor wide receiver Jaylen Waddle are expected to play Sunday. Achane’s status isn’t much of a surprise, as he was already doubtful on the injury report after missing practice all week with a shoulder injury. Waddle was listed as questionable after missing Wednesday’s practice and returning in a limited capacity Thursday and Friday.
Dolphins running back De’Von Achane and wide receiver Jaylen Waddle are not expected to play today’s regular-season finale at New England, per sources. pic.twitter.com/j1JnvXXpsq
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 4, 2026
With Waddle and Achane out, and rookie Quinn Ewers still in at quarterback, the Dolphins are 12-point road underdogs.
This article originally appeared on For The Win: Jaylen Waddle, De’Von Achane injury status for Week 18 vs. Patriots