Particle.news
Download on the App Store
7 ARTICLES
·
3h ago

Dolphins Visit Panthers in Week 5 as Injuries Force Offensive Rethinks

Injuries reshape plans, elevating Rico Dowdle, spotlighting Jaylen Waddle.

Miami Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel signals his intent to challenge a call Monday, Sept. 29, 2025 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens. (Joe Cavaretta/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Overview

  • Both teams enter at 1-3, with Miami coming off its first win over the Jets and Carolina rebounding from a 42-13 loss to the Patriots.
  • Panthers running back Chuba Hubbard was ruled out with a calf strain, positioning Rico Dowdle for lead duties with rookie Trevor Etienne in support.
  • Rookie receiver Jimmy Horn Jr. is expected to make his NFL debut with a defined offensive role, and Xavier Legette returns from a hamstring injury.
  • Miami adjusts after Tyreek Hill’s season-ending knee surgery, shifting emphasis to Jaylen Waddle, De’Von Achane and tight end Darren Waller, who caught two touchdowns in Week 4.
  • Carolina faces a Dolphins defense allowing 158.0 rushing yards per game and the second-highest yards per pass attempt, a weakness that could be targeted as Dave Canales seeks cleaner starts and steadier play-calling.