What’s up with Ryan Fitzpatrick’s injured throwing shoulder? We asked.
This has been a bizarro year for reporters covering the Dolphins.
Up is down. Right is wrong. A loss can actually be a win.
For example: Can you think of any other team that could go three weeks with their starting quarterback on the injury report — particularly with an injury to said quarterback’s throwing shoulder — without asking the coach at least something about the nature of the injury?
That has been the reality in Miami. Yes, Flores has been asked if Ryan Fitzpatrick, who has been dealing with shoulder discomfort for the better part of the month, will play. But he was never asked what exactly happened to his starter.
Was it something that happened in game? Or is it simply a reflection of expected wear and tear with a 37-year-old quarterback?
Flores answered Thursday:
“You play quarterback in this league and take a few hits. You get dinged. We have to report the injuries so they’re on there. He’s practiced. He’s fought through it. He’s fighting through it in practice and games, so he’ll be out there.”
Fitzpatrick was again at practice Thursday. He worked fully Wednesday after being limited in participation the week before. So whatever he’s dealing with, he’s improving.
It was almost inevitable that Fitzpatrick would have some sort of physical issue at this point in the season, considering he has been sacked 28 times. Then there is the contact that he initiates. Fitzpatrick is the Dolphins’ fourth-leading rusher (30 carries for 119 yards) and is tied for the team lead with three touchdowns.
And yet he will play Sunday against the Eagles, barring an unforeseen reversal.
The bigger question mark is Albert Wilson, who has been limited with a rib injury. Flores said the veteran wide receiver came through Wednesday’s practice “OK,” but makes no assurances that Wilson can go Sunday.
This story was originally published November 28, 2019 at 11:25 AM.
