Dolphins injury report: Charles Clay returns, Terrence Fede sits

The Miami Dolphins were back on the practice field Monday, returning to work following their 20-14 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Saturday night. While the team is still working to prepare for the regular season opener against the New England Patriots next month, including trying to solve the offensive line struggles, they did receive some good news Monday.

Starting tight end Charles Clay, who has been sidelined with a knee injury since the beginning of the month, returned to practice. He wore a brace on the knee, but was able to get back on the field, which adds credence to his statement that he would be ready for the Patriots game.

Also returning to practice on Monday was running back Daniel Thomas, who has been rehabbing a hamstring issue. Thomas is clearly on the roster bubble for the Dolphins, but given the team's inability to establish the running game so far this offseason, he could find an offense that is in need of his abilities. 

On the downside of the injury news, multiple players were forced to sit out Monday's workout. Defensive end Terrence Fede, who has been impressive throughout training camp and the first two preseason games, injured his knee late in the game against the Buccaneers and did not participate on Monday. He was joined by center Sam Brenner (shoulder), cornerback Jalil Brown (thigh), defensive tackle Anthony Johnson (shoulder), center Mike Pouncey (hip - PUP list) and returner Marcus Thigpen (leg). 

Kicker Caleb Sturgis, who appeared to re-injure his groin during warmups prior to the Buccaneers game, was also out of practice Monday.  John Potter, who kicked in Sturgis' place Saturday, connected on a 48-yard field goal early in the game, then added a 51-yarder later. 

The Dolphins play the Dallas Cowboys Saturday night in the "dress rehearsal" third preseason game.  Kickoff is at 7pm ET at Sun Life Stadium.