The Miami Dolphins are coming out of the bye week appearing to be much healthier than when the off week started. As the team prepares to play six division games over the next 11 weeks, starting with the Buffalo Bills on Sunday, the health of the team, and the depth behind the starters, will be an issue, but, for now, things appear to be getting better.
Except in the case of linebacker Dannell Ellerbe. The starting middle linebacker has said he expects to play against Buffalo, but has been forced to work with the trainers off the side of practice so far this week, and it appears he may not be ready to return from the shoulder injury he suffered against his former team, the Baltimore Ravens, in Week 5.
Ellerbe was seen walking onto the field with his helmet just as the media was required to leave the practice, so how much, if any, of the team work he was able to do is not known. Ellerbe was limited to just 16 snaps during the Ravens game with the shoulder injury, and has been battling through a ribs/pectoral issue this year as well.
Other Dolphins injury concerns include cornerback Dimitri Patterson, who has not been able to play since Week 1 at the Cleveland Browns. Patterson was once again a participant in practice, but spent a portion of the media-open practice on the side watching the drills.
During yesterday's practice, defensive tackle Paul Soliai and tight end Michael Egnew were not present, but both were back at work today. There was no reason given for the absence of either player.
The Dolphins will release their first injury/practice report of the week tomorrow.
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