Either linebacker Jerome Baker or guard Isaiah Wynn is done for the season.
That’s the impact of the Miami Dolphins placing Baker on injured reserve Saturday — just days after McDaniel suggested Baker would remain on the active roster.
That’s the biggest news of McDaniel’s final pregame media briefing of the week, which also included updates on Terron Armstead, Robert Hunt, and Jevon Holland.
Miami Dolphins Practice Report
Baker suffered an MCL sprain in Week 13, an injury that comes with a three-to-four-week recovery period.
By putting him on injured reserve, the Dolphins guaranteed that Baker would not play until Week 18 — at the earliest.
Each team is allowed to designate eight players placed on IR to return after that four-week period.
The Dolphins have already used seven of those eight spots. Baker or Wynn would be the eighth — presumably.
“This is more about the team needs, the collective accumulation of the roster and multiple positions,” said McDaniel, who wouldn’t commit to bringing Baker back in 2023 on Saturday. Baker being put on IR was “right on the fringe of yes or no” from a recovery timeline standpoint.
Translation: The Dolphins have since determined that they cannot afford to carry Baker on their 53.
MORE: Miami Dolphins Depth Chart
The Dolphins used the roster spot on Calvin Munson, whom they signed off the Patriots’ practice squad. Munson is in his third go-round with the Dolphins, appearing in 22 games with Miami over the course of the past four seasons.
Meanwhile, the Dolphins coach provided updates on three other starters during his Saturday briefing.
Robert Hunt (hamstring) will not play, meaning Lester Cotton or Liam Eichenberg will likely start at right guard.
Terron Armstead (ankle) has had no setbacks this week and will be listed as questionable on the team’s final injury report.
Defensive tackle Christian Wilkins (groin) is expected to play. Safety Jevon Holland (knees) is a “wait and see” situation, McDaniel added.
Tennessee Titans vs. Miami Dolphins Injury Report
Titans
Out
- CB Kristian Fulton (hamstring)
- DT Jeffery Simmons (knee)
- TE Josh Whyle (knee)
Doubtful
- None
Questionable
- DL Teair Tart (personal)
Dolphins
Out
- OG Robert Hunt (hamstring)
Doubtful
- None
Questionable
- OT Terron Armstead (knee/ankle)
- RB Chris Brooks (knee)
- S Jevon Holland (knees)
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