Dolphins will be without a running back on Thursday … maybe two

The Miami Dolphins will be missing at least one of their running backs when they face the Buffalo Bills on Thursday night, and it could even be two. There was no further clarity on Tuesday regarding the Miami Dolphins' two best running backs, which would certainly not be good news in view of their battle in the AFC East against the Buffalo Bills.

Head coach Mike McDaniel said before practice Wednesday that Raheem Mostert will not play in the AFC East battle at Hard Rock Stadium, while De'Von Achane's status will be decided later.

McDaniel said the short week played a role in the condition of Mostert, who is battling a chest injury. McDaniel said Mostert was injured early in the game but continued to play.

Achane, meanwhile, is struggling with an ankle injury that he apparently sustained while Catch a pass on the game-winning field goal drive.

The team will release its final injury report of the week, complete with game status information, on Wednesday afternoon.

Jeff Wilson Jr. and rookie fourth-round pick Jaylen Wright are the other two running backs on the roster, and the Dolphins could also sign rookie running back Deneric Prince from the practice squad if necessary.

Despite not having a single rushing attempt until the fourth quarter, Wilson led the team in rushing yards (with a very modest 26 yards). Wright showed great potential in the preseason when he led the team with 137 yards from the offensive zone.

When asked about the possibility of having to play Mostert and/or Achane, Smith said, “It has to do with the whole offseason program and our approach. That's how we try to be versatile with all the guys and make sure we understand where they fit on the roster. And when we have issues and guys are moving into different roles and stuff, we have a good feel for what they can do. And that's the good thing about this football team. We have a lot of guys that are very willing to do whatever it takes and have all the skills. So whatever happens on Thursday, we're going to have a plan and put ourselves in the best position to face Buffalo on Thursday.”