Dolphins starting strongside linebacker Philip Wheeler has been ruled out of Sunday’s game against New England with a right thumb injury.Wheeler participated in practice this week but he was limited with his thumb in a cast.
Second-year linebacker Jelani Jenkins is the most likely player to replace Wheeler in the starting lineup. Undrafted rookie Chris McCain should also see time in Wheeler’s spot.
Wheeler struggled last year and was the NFL’s worst-rated outside linebacker in a 4-3 defense by Pro Football Focus. The Dolphins shuffled their linebackers around this season, moving Wheeler from weakside to strongside, where he had his most success with Oakland.
Koa Misi will start his first game as Miami’s middle linebacker. He replaces Dannell Ellerbe, who was moved the weakside. Misi started at strongside last year and was the Dolphins’ only starting linebacker to have a positive PFF grade.
Center Mike Pouncey (hip), linebacker Jordan Tripp (chest) and defensive end Terrence Fede (knee) were ruled out earlier in the week.
Billy Turner, Miami’s backup left guard, is listed as doubtful (foot).
McCain (hip), safety Walt Aikens (hand), running back Knowshon Moreno (knee), defensive end Derrick Shelby (illness), kicker Caleb Sturgis (right groin) and cornerback Jamar Taylor (hip) are all listed as probable.
For New England, quarterback Tom Brady and tight end Rob Gronkowski are both listed as questionable but they are expected to play.
