For their playoff game against Kansas City on Saturday night, the Miami Dolphins elevated two members of their practice squad, both of which were intended to support the special teams.
Malik Reed and Ethan Bonner were raised by the Dolphins for the Chiefs game at Arrowhead Stadium.
The actions will benefit defensive players and important special teams players, which will have a cascading effect on the kicking game, as well as a special teams unit that has been beleaguered by injuries.
Leading special teams player Cameron Goode suffered a season-ending knee injury in the Buffalo Bills game.
Due to Jerome Baker’s injuries, other key members of the special teams, such as Elijah Campbell and Duke Riley, will have to play more defensive snaps. This might limit or prevent DeShon Elliott and/or Jevon Holland from starting versus Kansas City.
Following the injuries to Andrew Van Ginkel, Baker, and Goode in the Buffalo game, the Dolphins added three experienced linebackers this week, including Reed. Bruce Irvin and Justin Houston were the other two; they were added to the active list and will likely get significant playing time against the Chiefs.
Although Bonner was declared inactive for the Buffalo game, he was also upgraded.
