Category: NFL

Lions Fired Up for Conference Showdown as Campbell Stays Focused on Revenge Against Cowboys

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The Detroit Lions are gearing up for a highly anticipated Week 7 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys, a game that stirs memories of last season’s controversial loss. Head coach Dan Campbell has made it clear that the “controlled fury” he felt after that loss still lingers, driving his team’s determination for redemption as they return to AT&T Stadium.

Controversial Call Still Fuels Campbell

Last season, the Lions fell to the Cowboys in a heart-wrenching game after a two-point conversion attempt was controversially overturned. Officials claimed that Detroit had failed to properly report an offensive lineman as eligible, leading to a penalty for illegal touching. Jared Goff’s go-ahead pass to Taylor Decker was nullified, with the officials determining that Dan Skipper, not Decker, had improperly reported. Despite clear replays showing that Detroit followed the necessary protocols, the decision stood, leaving the Lions and their fans frustrated.

As Campbell reflected on the incident during his Monday media session, he admitted that the feelings of frustration and fury haven’t fully subsided. “That never really leaves,” Campbell said. “But yeah, I’m excited for this one. It’s the next one in front of us. It’s a conference opponent, and they’ve had our number for a while.” With the Lions eager for a rematch, Campbell’s emotional connection to the game adds an extra layer of intensity.

Cowboys Present a Formidable Challenge

The Cowboys are coming off a hard-fought win against the Pittsburgh Steelers, securing victory with a late fourth-quarter drive led by quarterback Dak Prescott. Campbell acknowledged the Cowboys’ recent success but remained optimistic about the upcoming clash. “They played pretty good last night. They did what they needed to do to win it,” Campbell noted, praising the Cowboys for handling a tough environment and strong defense.

Despite the challenge ahead, the Lions are undeterred. The game is set to be nationally televised, adding to the significance of the showdown. “National television, 4 o’clock, that’s awesome. Early national televised game. But we know we’ve got our hands full,” Campbell said.

A Special Connection to Texas

For Campbell, who grew up in Texas, this matchup holds personal significance. As a young football fan, he watched legends like Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith, and Michael Irvin, players who defined an era of dominance for the Cowboys. “It’s no secret, growing up in Texas… it was always kind of special,” Campbell recalled. He fondly remembered listening to Cowboys games on the radio during his teenage years, but as a professional, his focus is now entirely on finding a way to outsmart his former childhood heroes.

As the Lions head into this conference showdown, Campbell and his team are determined to reverse their fortunes against the Cowboys. Fueled by a sense of unfinished business, the Lions aim to secure a crucial win that would not only avenge last season’s controversial loss but also demonstrate their potential as a force in the NFC.

 

Kyler Murray’s Got Wheels and a Cannon—49ers Hoping for a Cheat Code

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After a much-needed defensive reset against the New England Patriots, the San Francisco 49ers (2-2) now face a far more dynamic challenge: the elusive and explosive Kyler Murray. As they prepare to host the Arizona Cardinals (1-3) on Sunday, San Francisco knows it’s not just any quarterback they’re dealing with—it’s Murray, a human cheat code with the ability to zip passes downfield and break away like a punt returner.

A Whole New Test: From Patriots to Murray

While the 49ers’ defense feasted on an anemic Patriots offense last week, securing six sacks and two takeaways, this week’s game will be a different story. According to San Francisco’s defensive coordinator, Nick Sorensen, Murray presents a whole new level of difficulty.

“Those guys are hard to deal with because he does have the arm strength, and he can escape like a freaking punt returner,” Sorensen said. “He’s got elite quickness and doesn’t have to have his feet set to throw the ball. So you have to be disciplined… It’s one of those track shoe-type days.”

Murray, who’s looked more comfortable running Arizona’s offense this season after recovering from a knee injury, remains a dual-threat headache. Despite some up-and-down performances, his ability to make plays with both his feet and his arm will be a crucial test for a Niners defense that’s trying to prove its early-season struggles were just a temporary blip.

Kyler’s Ups and Downs

Kyler Murray has been hot and cold through the first four games. He flashed potential in the opener against the Buffalo Bills and then put together a stellar performance in a win against the Rams, where he threw for three touchdowns and broke out some highlight-reel runs. But in the last two weeks, things haven’t looked quite as rosy, with the Cardinals managing just 27 points in back-to-back losses to Detroit and Washington.

“I have to be better,” Murray admitted. “To go out there and put 14 points up, that’s not the standard we hold ourselves to. I feel like I’m surrounded by a lot of great players, so I would never expect us to go out there and put up 14 points. We don’t practice for 14 points, but this is the NFL. It is not easy, and I definitely expect to have a better week this week.”

Purdy Houdini vs. Kyler Magic

While Kyler Murray’s athleticism gets most of the headlines, Niners QB Brock Purdy has been quietly showing off his own playmaking skills this season. Though no one will mistake Purdy for Murray, he’s been able to scramble and extend plays, racking up eight first downs on the ground. Cardinals coach Jonathan Gannon has taken note of Purdy’s sneakily mobile play style.

“Sometimes he looks like Houdini back there,” Gannon said. “It’s hard to get him on the ground, too. Not being a quote-unquote ‘mobile quarterback,’ he’s very mobile.”

The Murray-Harrison Jr. Connection

Murray’s top target this season has been rookie Marvin Harrison Jr., and the two have been a dynamic duo. Harrison, the No. 4 overall pick from Ohio State, has already hauled in 15 passes for 243 yards and four touchdowns, tying for the NFL lead in receiving scores. Cardinals coach Jonathan Gannon praised Harrison’s ability to win his matchups and execute his routes with precision.

“He was open a couple of times, and the ball didn’t find him,” Gannon noted, “but I thought he was winning at a high level.”

The challenge for the Niners will be containing this burgeoning connection, especially with star linebacker Fred Warner still nursing an ankle injury. Warner, who has been playing at a Defensive Player of the Year level, has made game-changing plays all season, including a 45-yard pick-six last week.

“I feel like he’s been playing like the MVP of the whole league, definitely Defensive Player of the Year so far,” said Niners cornerback Charvarius Ward. “If he keeps it up, it will be a legendary season for him.”

Cardinals Defense in Shambles

While the focus may be on Murray and Harrison, Arizona’s defense has been its Achilles heel. After giving up 187 rushing yards to the Lions and 216 to the Commanders, the Cardinals’ run defense looks leaky at best. With key injuries to players like defensive linemen Justin Jones and Darius Robinson, the team is struggling to plug the gaps.

“We haven’t done a good enough job stopping the run, so we’re playing behind the eight ball on defense all day and it’s a hard way to go,” Gannon acknowledged. “We do have to do the little easy things better—set edges, tackle, get off blocks, and be in the right spot.”

The Road Ahead

As the 49ers prepare for Kyler Murray and the Cardinals, they know they’re in for a different kind of battle—a track meet more than a slugfest. If San Francisco’s defense can keep up with Murray’s speed and limit his playmaking, they’ll not only get back on track but prove they can handle even the most unpredictable quarterbacks in the league. If not, it could be a long day at the office, with Murray and Harrison poised to make life difficult.

The 49ers hope they don’t need a cheat code to stop Murray, but they might just wish they had one by the end of Sunday.

Richardson Out, Flacco Shines: Colts Lead Steelers After QB Swap in Week 4

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Anthony Richardson’s unfortunate injury streak continued in Week 4, as the Indianapolis Colts’ second-year quarterback suffered a hip injury during a matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Richardson, known for his dynamic playmaking ability, started the season with a dazzling touchdown pass, but his early exit marked another setback in his young career.

The injury occurred when Richardson kept the ball on a run-pass option and veered left. Attempting to slide, he awkwardly fell to his knee, which left him vulnerable. Steelers’ Minkah Fitzpatrick collided with Richardson, appearing to lead with his head for a helmet-to-helmet hit. Despite the hard hit, no flag was thrown by the referees.

Richardson left the field and was escorted to the locker room. Although he returned to the sideline shortly after, the Colts quickly announced that their young quarterback would be out for the remainder of the game.

In his absence, veteran Joe Flacco stepped in and immediately made an impact. On his first drive, Flacco threw a touchdown pass, showcasing the experience that made him successful with the Cleveland Browns at the end of last season. This game marked Flacco’s debut with the Colts, making Indianapolis the fifth team he’s played for since 2018.

The Colts, leading the Steelers 17-0 at the time, were in control, with Flacco now taking charge of the offense.

For Richardson, this latest injury is a troubling addition to a growing list. During his rookie season in 2023, he was shut down after suffering a shoulder injury in Week 5. As the Colts continue their 2024 campaign, Richardson’s health will remain a key concern, while Flacco provides a solid backup option.

 

49ers Aim to Break Losing Streak as Patriots’ Rushing Attack Looms Large

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The San Francisco 49ers, under the guidance of head coach Kyle Shanahan, are not accustomed to playing with a losing record. Despite this unusual position, they have managed to win — and cover the spread — in their last five games under similar circumstances. This Sunday, the 49ers will strive to extend that streak to six, beginning with their performance against the New England Patriots’ offense.

Patriots’ Rushing Attack: A Threat or a Mirage?

The Patriots’ offensive identity heavily revolves around their ground game, though their efficiency leaves much to be desired. As defensive coordinator Nick Sorensen noted, “Well, they can really run the ball.” However, while New England ranks eighth in rushing attempts, they sit at a mediocre 18th in rushing success rate, which measures consistency and efficiency on a play-to-play basis. In terms of rushing EPA (Expected Points Added), a measure of the impact of big plays, the Patriots fare slightly better at 13th. However, neither of these statistics suggests a dominant rushing force.

The 49ers’ defense, currently struggling to stop the run, ranks 25th in rushing success rate allowed and 28th in rushing EPA allowed. Injuries have further complicated matters, with the loss of defensive tackle Javon Hargrave and the addition of Jordan Elliott to the injury report. This leaves the 49ers vulnerable up front. However, the Patriots have had their own struggles creating running lanes, ranking 30th in the NFL in yards before contact, a crucial measure of offensive line effectiveness. The upcoming matchup will be a test of strength between two underperforming units.

Tackling the Patriots’ Ground Game

The 49ers’ defense will face a duo of hefty running backs in Rhamondre Stevenson and Antonio Gibson, both of whom are powerful but lack elusiveness. The key for San Francisco will be to avoid giving up early yards and to force the Patriots into passing situations. Scoring early and making New England one-dimensional, as the New York Jets did, will be essential.

San Francisco has been proficient in tackling, with only five missed tackles in the last two games. Maintaining this standard against the Patriots’ running backs on early downs could enable them to control the tempo of the game. The question remains whether the 49ers will adjust their defensive approach, potentially stacking the box more frequently to compensate for their deficiencies at defensive tackle.

Air Attack: A Study in Contrasts

Returning to Levi’s Stadium, the 49ers enter the game as 10.5-point favorites against a Patriots team struggling to generate an effective aerial attack. Quarterback Jacoby Brissett has shown reluctance to throw deep, attempting only five passes over 20 yards this season. In contrast, Brock Purdy, the 49ers’ quarterback, ranks second in the NFL in average throw depth, emphasizing a more aggressive passing strategy.

New England’s passing offense primarily relies on tight end Hunter Henry and wide receiver Demario Douglas, the only two players with double-digit targets. This predictability could play into the hands of the 49ers’ defense, particularly linebacker Fred Warner, who excels in coverage over the middle. If San Francisco can contain these limited passing options, it will further hinder the Patriots’ offensive rhythm.

Pressuring the Patriots’ Pocket

While Brissett’s mobility has allowed him to extend plays, the Patriots’ offensive line has struggled, ranking second-highest in the league for pressure rate allowed. The absence of Hargrave will put additional pressure on Nick Bosa and Leonard Floyd to disrupt Brissett in the pocket. Historically, the 49ers have had difficulty containing mobile quarterbacks, but Brissett’s tendency to prioritize passing before scrambling could work in their favor.

The Patriots’ offensive line issues extend beyond technique to health, with several players sporting knee braces and backups forced into starting roles. If the 49ers’ pass rush can exploit these weaknesses, they stand a good chance of neutralizing Brissett’s effectiveness.

The Patriots’ Offensive Woes

New England’s offense has been largely anemic, scoring only 16, 20, and 3 points in their first three games. Even in their most productive game against Seattle, Brissett managed just 149 passing yards, with nearly three-quarters of those going to Henry. Such limited offensive firepower presents an opportunity for the 49ers’ defense to regain confidence and control the game.

For the 49ers, this game represents a crucial chance to correct course early in the season. With the Patriots’ offense struggling to find its footing and the 49ers eager to prove they can still dominate, this matchup could serve as a turning point. San Francisco must capitalize on New England’s vulnerabilities, particularly on the offensive line and in their passing game, to secure a much-needed victory and extend their streak of success when facing adversity.

Christian McCaffrey’s Season in Jeopardy as Achilles Injury Raises Shutdown Concerns

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The San Francisco 49ers might have to face the grim reality of their All-Pro running back, Christian McCaffrey, missing the entire 2024 season due to a lingering Achilles injury. Recent updates have cast doubt on his return, suggesting a longer-than-expected recovery period, and raising the possibility of shutting him down for the year.

Concerns Over McCaffrey’s Recovery Timeline

McCaffrey, sidelined with Achilles tendinitis, was placed on injured reserve ahead of Week 2. Initially, the team hoped for a quick recovery, with a four-week absence expected. However, McCaffrey’s recent visit to Germany to consult a specialist has caused concern. The move implies that his injury might be more severe, and could potentially keep him out for a much longer period.

According to Dr. Kenton Fibel, medical director for the NHL’s Anaheim Ducks, McCaffrey’s visit indicates a serious injury, potentially involving microscopic tears in the tendon that haven’t responded well to initial treatments. Dr. Fibel stated, “McCaffrey would likely be sidelined for at least a month and probably closer to a couple of months if he had an orthobiologic procedure.”

49ers Face a Dilemma: Risk McCaffrey’s Return or Plan Without Him

The 49ers are now facing a difficult decision: risk bringing McCaffrey back prematurely or opt for a more conservative approach, possibly shutting him down for the season. If McCaffrey remains out for an extended period, he could miss the majority of the regular season, returning only for the final weeks or potentially the postseason.

Jordan Mason, the 49ers’ No. 2 running back, has filled in admirably, but as many acknowledge, Mason isn’t McCaffrey. His absence leaves a significant void in the 49ers’ offense, forcing the team to adjust its strategy moving forward.

Future Prospects: A Return in Time for Playoffs?

If McCaffrey’s recovery aligns with the extended timeline Dr. Fibel suggested, he could be back around Weeks 12 or 13. This would allow him to rejoin the team for a potential playoff push. However, relying on his return comes with risks, and there is growing speculation that the 49ers might decide to shut him down for the entire season to ensure his long-term health and availability for future campaigns.

This cautious approach could prevent further complications and protect McCaffrey’s career, especially given the Achilles tendon’s critical role in a running back’s performance. As the 49ers navigate the season without their star, all eyes will be on how they manage his recovery and whether they decide to play it safe or take the risk.

Conclusion

The possibility of Christian McCaffrey missing the entire 2024 season is becoming more likely as the severity of his Achilles injury unfolds. With the uncertainty surrounding his recovery, the 49ers must weigh their options carefully. Whether they choose to bring McCaffrey back for a late-season run or protect him for future seasons remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that McCaffrey’s health will be paramount in making that decision.

NFL Execs Praise Lions’ Unique Culture and Top-Tier Draft Strategy

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The Detroit Lions are gaining recognition across the NFL, not just for their on-field performance but for the exceptional work of their front office. In a recent survey conducted by The Athletic, involving 35 high-ranking executives and five coaches, the Lions were highlighted as having one of the best front offices in the league.

Strong Ranking Among Peers

Detroit finished fifth in the survey, trailing only the Baltimore Ravens, Kansas City Chiefs, San Francisco 49ers, and Philadelphia Eagles. This acknowledgment from league insiders is a testament to the successful vision and execution of the Lions’ management team, led by General Manager Brad Holmes.

“If you asked: Who is the No. 1 GM in the league right now, this minute? It might be him,” one anonymous general manager said, referring to Holmes. “I love the demeanor, love what he stands for.”

Impressive Draft Strategy and Culture

Since joining the Lions, Holmes has been instrumental in assembling a talented and cohesive roster. His strategic approach to the draft has delivered standout players such as Penei Sewell, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Aidan Hutchinson, and Jahmyr Gibbs. Holmes’ 2023 draft class was particularly impressive, earning him the title of “NFL Executive of the Year” from the Pro Football Writers of America, and similar recognition from his peers.

But the Lions’ success goes beyond drafting talented players. The front office has been lauded for cultivating a distinct culture that sets the organization apart from others in the league. “Detroit has done a nice job building it in their own image, which is unique to everybody else,” an executive noted in the survey. This unique culture is built on strong values, clear vision, and a commitment to fostering a winning environment.

The recognition of Detroit’s front office comes at a time when the franchise is striving to solidify its place among the NFL’s elite. With the support and confidence of their management, the Lions are positioned to continue their rise in the league, challenging traditional powerhouses and creating a blueprint for sustained success.

Being ranked ahead of established franchises like the Green Bay Packers, Seattle Seahawks, and Pittsburgh Steelers underscores the progress the Lions have made. As the team continues to build on its unique identity and strategic vision, fans and executives alike are watching to see just how far this new era of Detroit football can go.

Gun Used in 49ers WR Ricky Pearsall Shooting Reported Stolen by Arizona Owner

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An Arizona man has reported the theft of a gun allegedly used in the shooting of San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall. The weapon was used by a 17-year-old in a robbery attempt in Union Square, resulting in a gunfight that left both Pearsall and the suspect injured.

Gun Reported Stolen Months Prior

According to Sgt. Ryan Cook of the Tempe Police Department, the owner legally purchased the semiautomatic pistol from a Phoenix gun shop in February but recently discovered it missing. He filed a theft report this week in Tempe, stating that he last saw the firearm “about three months ago.” Cook noted that the owner also reported another gun stolen, though details on both weapons remain limited.

The firearm used in the shooting was identified by a source familiar with the case as a .40-caliber Glock 23, a popular handgun among law enforcement agencies. Purchased from MMP Guns, a branch of Mo Money Pawn Shop in Phoenix, it remains unclear how the gun ended up in San Francisco, where it was used in the attempted robbery.

The Shooting Incident

On August 31, Pearsall was approached by the 17-year-old suspect while carrying shopping bags to his Tesla near high-end stores in Union Square. The suspect reportedly attempted to rob Pearsall, who resisted, leading to a physical altercation. During the struggle, the suspect fired the weapon, hitting Pearsall in the chest. Police stated that the suspect was also injured by a bullet from his own gun during the encounter.

Pearsall, an Arizona native and former Arizona State University player, survived the incident and is expected to return to the field later this season.

Legal Proceedings and Defense Strategy

The suspect has been charged with several offenses, including attempted murder, attempted second-degree robbery, and assault with a semiautomatic firearm. His attorney, arguing for reduced charges, claimed to have video evidence showing an “extended struggle” between the teenager and Pearsall, suggesting that the actions did not warrant an attempted murder charge. The lawyer contends that the teen should only face attempted robbery charges.

District Attorney Brooke Jenkins has not yet decided whether to pursue adult charges against the teenager. A court hearing is scheduled for November to determine the next steps in the case.

Stolen Guns and Crime Rates

The use of stolen guns in crimes is a widespread issue in the United States. A UC Davis study revealed that firearms reported stolen are nine times more likely to be involved in criminal activity than those not reported stolen. From 2017 to 2021, over one million stolen guns were reported to law enforcement agencies by private citizens.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) reported in 2023 that more than half of the traceable guns recovered by California law enforcement in 2021 were linked to dealers in other states, with Arizona being a common point of origin. This troubling trend highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in curbing the flow of stolen firearms across state lines.

Conclusion

As investigations continue into how the stolen gun made its way from Arizona to San Francisco, the case underscores the ongoing issue of stolen firearms fueling violent crime. For Ricky Pearsall and his family, the focus remains on his recovery and eventual return to the football field, while legal proceedings against the young suspect unfold.

Jets’ Aaron Rodgers Warns: Handling Success is Our Biggest Challenge Ahead

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New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers knows a thing or two about keeping calm in the face of adversity. After a rocky start to the season, he shared his insights with Pro Football Talk, addressing the challenges that lie ahead for his team.

The Struggle with Success

Rodgers highlighted a common dilemma in sports, reflecting on a quote from former coach Mike McCarthy: “Our biggest struggle is going to be handling success.” He elaborated, noting that it’s easier for a team to bond when they face challenges, saying, “It’s us against the world, it’s us against the big bad media who are saying how bad we are.”

This season started off shaky for the Jets, with Rodgers appearing a bit rusty in the first six quarters. However, the tide turned during halftime against Tennessee, sparking a noticeable improvement in the offense. Since then, the Jets have strung together two consecutive wins, defeating a solid New England defense.

Looking Ahead to the Broncos

As the Jets prepare for their Week 4 matchup against the struggling Denver Broncos, they are 7.5-point favorites. Despite this favorable position, Rodgers emphasized the importance of maintaining focus on the immediate task rather than looking ahead to the next game against the Vikings. “I think that’s the mark of a great team,” he stated. “Just, can you handle the success part, with the same focus, the same mentality, the same mindset, the same energy when you’re starting to get on a little bit of a roll?”

One Game at a Time

With the Jets having not won more than seven games in a decade, Rodgers’ message is clear: take it one game at a time. The team must remain grounded and keep pushing forward. “Stay humble. Stay hungry,” he advised, underscoring the mindset required for sustained success.

As the season progresses, the Jets will look to navigate the complexities of success while aiming for a brighter future. With leaders like Rodgers at the helm, they may just have the right strategy to rise to the occasion.

Injury Woes Plague Dolphins

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The Miami Dolphins, with a current record of 1-2, are grappling with a disappointing start to the 2024 NFL season, significantly impacted by injuries to key players. The most notable absence is that of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who has been placed on injured reserve after suffering his third concussion in the league. This setback has not only raised concerns about Tagovailoa’s health but has also left the Dolphins without their starting signal-caller for the foreseeable future.

A Roster in Distress

Tagovailoa is not alone in facing injury challenges; the Dolphins currently have ten players on injured reserve and an additional four on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. Among those on the PUP list is newly acquired wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr., who began training camp on the active/PUP list due to an undisclosed injury. After failing to participate during training camp, Beckham was placed on the reserve/PUP list, sidelining him for the first four games of the season.

Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel expressed optimism regarding Beckham’s potential return, stating, “I’m optimistic when his window opens up. We will see how his body responds. He hasn’t had the setbacks we made sure to avoid.” While the team hopes to have Beckham back soon, there remains a possibility that he may not be ready to return immediately after his four-week stint on the PUP list. If the Dolphins designate him for return after Week 4, they will open a 21-day practice window for him before he can be activated to the active roster. Given the team’s schedule, he could potentially make his return in Week 7, following a bye week in Week 6.

Struggles in the Receiving Corps

With Tagovailoa and Beckham out, the Dolphins’ wide receiver depth is being tested. Braxton Berrios has stepped in as the de facto WR3 but has seen limited action. He has only been on the field for 77 offensive snaps, accounting for approximately 37% of the team’s offensive plays, and has not recorded a single reception on four targets. Outside of star receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, the rest of the receiving corps has combined for just three receptions on 14 targets, totaling a mere 48 yards.

The absence of Beckham could not come at a more critical time for the Dolphins, as they look to navigate a tough start to the season. As they prepare for their next game, the hope is that their star wideout will soon be available to bolster a struggling offense that desperately needs his playmaking ability. With injuries piling up, the Dolphins are in dire need of reinforcements to turn their season around.