The Miami Dolphins (2-2) enter their bye week with a .500 record. There were some issues to start the season, but the Dolphins also did several things well.
However, one of the biggest benefits of the bye week is getting players healthy with two weeks in between games. Here are three important players expected to return when the Dolphins (2-2) host the Green Bay Packers (2-2) Oct. 12 at Sun Life Stadium:
1. Safety Reshad Jones
Reason missing: Suspension
Analysis: Jones returned to the Dolphins Monday following his four-game suspension for violating the NFL’s policy on performance-enhancing substances. Miami’s secondary can certainly use Jones’ playmaking ability. Until Sunday’s win over the Oakland Raiders, the Dolphins’ secondary did not have an interception in the first three regular-season games. Miami had three picks in Week 4. Jones was a starter before the suspension, but his role must be re-examined. He hasn’t been around the Dolphins for a month and has to get back into football shape, which is different than lifting weights. Jones gets two weeks to work his way back into the lineup but, at the very least, Jones should make an impact on sub packages until he gets his legs under him.
Impact: Medium
2. Linebacker Koa Misi
Reason missing: ankle injury
Analysis: Misi suffered an ankle injury in Week 1 against the New England Patriots and has been missing since. Veteran backup Jason Trusnik has filled in, but the Dolphins have missed Misi’s athleticism in the middle. With Dannell Ellerbe (hip) already out of the season, the Dolphins need Misi’s leadership and veteran presence more than ever. "I'm real excited because having a healthy Koa Misi makes our team better. There's no question about it," Dolphins defensive coordinator Kevin Coyle said.
Impact: Medium
3. Center Mike Pouncey
Reason missing: hip surgery
Analysis: Pouncey has practiced for the past two weeks and was on the cusp of returning. But the Dolphins played it safe and had Pouncey wait until after the bye week. Pouncey is one of the top players on the team and should help with pass protection and the running game. The Dolphins already have the fifth-best rushing attack in the NFL and their pass protection has improved from a year ago. Pouncey should add more stability.
Impact: High