Cowboys at Dolphins injury report: James, Claiborne ruled out; McFadden questionable

The Miami Dolphins will host the Dallas Cowboys in a Week 11 contest between two teams hoping to keep their playoff chances alive. Both teams face uphill battles to keep those postseason dreams, and they may be doing it a little shorthanded this weekend. The Dolphins and Cowboys have both released their injury reports for this weekend's contest.

Out (Will not play)

The Dolphins ruled offensive tackle Ja'Wuan James out of the game for the third straight week as he recovers from a toe injury. The Cowboys ruled out wide receiver Brice Butler (hamstring), cornerback Morris Claiborne (hamstring/ankle), and defensive end Ryan Russell (abdomen).

Doubtful (75% chance to not play)

Miami's list of doubtful players are linebackers Jelani Jenkins and Spencer Paysinger, Jenkins with an ankle issue and Paysinger with a neck problem. The Cowboys did not list anyone as doubtful.

Questionable (50% chance to play)

The Dolphins listed cornerback Brice McCain as questionable with a knee injury, as well as linebacker Koa Misi, who has an abdominal issue. The Cowboys included defensive end Jeremy Mincey, with a thigh injury, and linebacker Kyle Wilber, with a toe issue, in the category. One of the biggest name on the list comes from the Cowboys in the questionable category as well, with running back Darren McFadden being added to the injury list on Thursday with a groin injury and now finding himself as questionable for the contest.

Probable (75% chance to play)

The Dolphins had three players on the injury list during the week that are now probable for the game: guard Jamil Douglas (shoulder), safety Michael Thomas (shoulder), and running back Damien Williams (ankle/hand). The Cowboys' list of probable players is longer, with nine players in the category. They start with wide receiver Dez Bryant, who was limited throughout the week in practice due to foot and knee injuries, but it does appear he will be ready to play on Sunday. Joining Bryant are cornerback Brandon Carr (shoulder), safety Barry Church (ankle), defensive tackle Nick Hayden (ankle), safety Jeff Heath (shoulder), linebacker Anthony Hitchens (ankle), defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence (back), linebacker Sean Lee (concussion), and linebacker Rolando McClain (foot)

Analysis

The Dolphins' biggest issue is going to be in the linebacker corps, where Jenkins and Paysinger are doubtful and Misi is questionable. Miami could have to rely on starter Kelvin Sheppard and a bunch of younger players like Zach Vigil, Chris McCain, and Neville Hewitt. They played well last week as they filled in because of the injuries, but they still need to prove they are ready for regular, extended playing time. This week, against a team that focuses on the running game and has a weapon like Jason Witten at tight end, the linebackers are going to be challenged.

The Cowboys' biggest injury issue, really, is not even listed on the report. Quarterback Tony Romo is coming back from a broken collarbone and will be playing his first game after missing the last seven. Will he be rusty after all the missed time? Will he and Bryant, who seemed to be bothered by the foot and knee last week and may still be a step slow from it this week. be able to get back on the same page? Finally, will McFadden's injury add any more pressure to Romo and the rest of the offense?

The Dolphins and Cowboys kick off in Miami's Sun Life Stadium at 1pm ET on Sunday.