DAVIE, Fla. -- The Miami Dolphins (4-7) are expected to be without at least two starters when they suit up for Sunday’s game against the Baltimore Ravens (4-7).
No. 2 wide receiver Rishard Matthews and defensive tackle Earl Mitchell were both ruled out Friday. Matthews has chest and rib injuries, and Mitchell has a calf injury. Both players missed all three practices this week.
This will open up more opportunities for several rookies, who will need to step up down the stretch.
Miami first-round pick DeVante Parker will likely get his first career start in place of Matthews. Parker had a career-high four receptions for 80 yards and a touchdown in last week’s loss to the New York Jets.
Second-round pick Jordan Phillips will get increased snaps at defensive tackle with Mitchell out.
With Matthews out and the status of fellow receiver Kenny Stills (ankle) questionable, second-year backup Matt Hazel also is expected to make his NFL debut. He has been inactive for all 11 games this season.
“It’s tough because you want to get out there and do what you’ve always been doing,” Hazel said after Friday's practice. “But you just gotta continue to just keep working, keep grinding and getting better every day.”
Here is the full injury report for Miami:
Out: RT Ja'Wuan James (toe), WR Rishard Matthews (ankle), DT Earl Mitchell (calf)
Questionable: C Mike Pouncey (foot), WR Kenny Stills (ankle)
Probable: RB Jay Ajayi (shoulder), LT Branden Albert (non-injury), S Shamiel Gary (foot), LB Jelani Jenkins (ankle), WR Jarvis Landry (knee), LB Chris McCain (hip), LB Koa Misi (abdomen), DT Jordan Phillips (shoulder), LB Kelvin Sheppard (hamstring)
