Report: Dolphins' Waddle, Mostert not expected to face Bills

The Miami Dolphins will be without two key starters against the Buffalo Bills.

Running back Raheem Mostert and wide receiver Jaylen Waddle aren't expected to play in Week 18, reports Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.

The winner of Sunday's game will claim the AFC East title.

Mostert is dealing with knee and ankle injuries, while Waddle is battling an ankle ailment. Both players were listed as questionable after being limited participants at practice Friday. They missed last week's 56-19 loss to the Baltimore Ravens.

Mostert posted a career year in 2023, topping 1,000 rushing yards for the first time while leading the NFL with 21 scrimmage touchdowns. The veteran was named the AFC's starting running back for the 2024 Pro Bowl.

Waddle ranks second on the Dolphins with 72 receptions for 1,014 yards and four touchdowns. He's caught at least 1,000 yards each season since entering the NFL as the No. 6 pick in 2021.

With Mostert sidelined, Miami will likely continue to rely on De'Von Achane in the running game. The third-round rookie rushed for 107 yards on 14 carries in Week 17. Veteran Jeff Wilson had three rushing attempts against Baltimore.

Meanwhile, Tyreek Hill headlines the Dolphins' wide receiver depth chart. Wideout Cedrick Wilson and tight end Durham Smythe could see more targets again after being targeted four and three times, respectively, versus the Ravens. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa also looked for his running backs often in the passing game last week, completing seven total passes to Achane and Wilson.

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