The NFL’s long-awaited Wildcard Weekend is finally here and so is the injury report. It’s one of the most exciting weeks for NFL fans, being able to watch their team either triumph or start their offseason earlier than they would’ve liked. America will certainly be watching one of the most exciting games of the year, in Dolphins vs. Chiefs. Make sure to click here for all other playoff injury reports for this weekend and beyond.
Dolphins @ Chiefs Injury Report
Miami Dolphins
Raheem Mostert: Knee and ankle injuries have Mostert listed as questionable. He did not participate in practice. Mostert was inactive due to these same injuries last week against Buffalo. If he isn’t able to play, this could be a sizable loss. Mostert leads the league in rushing touchdowns with 18. Assuming he can’t go, DeVon Achane will get the majority of carries with Jeff Wilson Jr. getting some work as well. Miami might struggle a bit to score in the red zone without Mostert.
Jaylen Waddle: An ankle injury has Miami’s No. 2 receiver listed as questionable. He wasn’t able to play with the same injury last week. If he can’t go, expect Kansas City to double Tyreek Hill every play. If that’s the case, expect a massive target share for Cedrick Wilson Jr., Braxton Berrios and De’Von Achane.
Xavien Howard: Miami’s No. 2 cornerback will be inactive this week due to a foot injury. This puts Eli Apple back in the starting lineup, who’s been shaky at best. Apple has failed to reach a coverage grade above 75 in the last 10 weeks of play. Thankfully, Kansas City’s receiving core isn’t that talented. Justin Watson will be able to make a few nice catches but won’t have a great advantage against Apple.
DeShon Elliott: A calf injury will ensure Miami’s starting strong safety doesn’t play. He’s been poor in coverage but is one of the best tackling safeties in the league with an average grade of 84.1 in that category. Backup Brandon Jones has played well in the snaps he has taken. Still, expect slightly worse open-field tackling from the safety position this week.
Jerome Baker: A wrist injury has landed the Dolphins’ starting linebacker on injured reserve, likely ending his season. While inconsistent at times, Baker has shown an ability to be very good to elite in all important categories. With Duke Riley starting in his place, expect slightly worse tackling and much worse midfield coverage.
Kansas City Chiefs
Kadarius Toney: Hip and ankle injuries will likely keep one of the Chiefs’ most explosive weapons out. He hasn’t been productive as of late, but he was in last year’s playoff run. With the possibility of Toney being out, look for Mecole Hardman Jr. to be more involved.