Dolphins’ Austin Jackson, Darren Waller & Rasul Douglas set to return vs. Saints
The reinforcements are officially back.
Right tackle Austin Jackson and tight end Darren Waller will make their return to the Miami Dolphins lineup after more than a month of recovery from their respective injuries. Sidelined with a broken toe since the end of the Dolphins’ Week 1 matchup against the Indianapolis Colts, Jackson hopes to be a boon to the offensive line, while Waller’s return gives Tua Tagovailoa another weapon in the passing game. The star tight had been out with a pectoral injury since Week 7.
Also active: Rasul Douglas and defensive tackle Benito Jones, both of whom were initially listed as questionable. Douglas’ return will be huge for the defense as the cornerback has missed the last two games with foot and ankle injuries.
In terms of inactive players, that list includes cornerback A.J. Green III, linebacker Andre Carter II, wide receiver Tahj Washington, defensive tackle Matthew Butler and Quinn Ewers, the latter of whom will serve as the emergency third quarterback.
Waller, who originally missed most of training camp and the start of the 2025 season with a hip injury, came back in Week 4 with a bang, snagging two touchdowns. He recorded 10 catches for 117 yards and four touchdowns during his four-game stint prior to the pectoral injury.
Jackson has dealt with a toe injury since the beginning of training camp. He returned and practiced Week 1 in the lead up to the Colts game — only to re-aggravate the ailment late in the matchup. Arguably the Dolphins’ best run blocker, his presence could help boost a rushing attack led by one of the best tailbacks in the league in De’Von Achane.
This story was originally published November 30, 2025 at 11:53 AM.
