Tua not starting vs. Texans due to reported fractured finger

Miami Dolphins quarterback Jacoby Brissett is starting Sunday's game against the Houston Texans in place of Tua Tagovailoa.

Tagovailoa isn't starting due to a small fracture in the middle finger of his throwing hand, ESPN's Chris Mortensen reports. However, he is dressed for the contest, though he'll only serve as an emergency backup, sources told Joe Schad of the Palm Beach Post.

The ailment is not expected to be a long-term injury, but Tagovailoa's status for Week 10 is now also in question, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. The Dolphins are slated to face the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday Night Football following their clash with Houston.

Dolphins head coach Brian Flores was optimistic about Tagovailoa's status heading into Miami's meeting with the Texans. But the 23-year-old only participated in a limited capacity throughout the week's practice sessions.

Tagovailoa has struggled to find stability in 2021. He missed three games with fractured ribs, and his name was also linked in trade rumors ahead of the deadline. He's thrown for seven touchdowns against five interceptions.

Miami sits last in the AFC East with a 1-7 record.

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