Crystal Pouncey
Jan 14, 2024 - 02:10

Dolphins WR Jaylen Waddle and RB Raheem Mostert available for playoff game in Kansas City vs Chiefs

Miami Dolphins' Jaylen Waddle and Raheem Mostert were active for the wild-card playoff game against the Kansas City Chiefs.

Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle and running back Raheem Mostert were both active for the wild-card playoff game against the Kansas City Chiefs at frozen Arrowhead Stadium on Saturday night. Despite dealing with ankle and knee/ankle injuries, respectively, they were both cleared to play after missing the past two games and being limited in practice throughout the week. Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel had initially planned to wait until warmups to make a final decision on their availability, but he expressed optimism that both players would be able to contribute.

Unfortunately, Dolphins safety Jevon Holland was a game-time decision with a knee injury and ultimately was ruled inactive, as was cornerback Xavien Howard, who had been dealing with a foot injury. However, safety DeShon Elliott, who had been dealing with a calf injury, was available to face the Chiefs.

To bolster their roster for the game, the Dolphins elevated cornerback Ethan Bonner and linebacker Malik Reid to the active roster. Their other inactive players were wide receiver Robbie Chosen, cornerback Cam Smith, offensive tackle Kion Smith, and tight end Tyler Kroft.

On the Chiefs' side, they came into the game relatively healthy after resting several key players in their Week 18 game against the Chargers. Wide receiver Kadarius Toney, who had been limited in practice all week, was inactive with hip and ankle injuries, while fellow wide receiver Justyn Ross was also inactive with a hamstring injury. Left tackle Wanya Morris, who had been starting in place of the injured Donovan Smith, was inactive with a concussion, but Smith returned to the lineup after dealing with a neck injury.

The Chiefs elevated defensive tackle Mike Pennel to the active roster to face Miami. First-round pick Felix Anudike-Uzomah was surprisingly inactive for them, along with defensive tackle Neil Farrell, defensive end BJ Thompson, and cornerback Keith Taylor.

Overall, both teams had some key players available and others sidelined due to injuries, but the stage was set for an exciting playoff matchup between the Dolphins and the Chiefs.