NFL

Dolphins Injury Update: DeVante Parker, Xavien Howard, Tua Tagovailoa

Joe Schad
Palm Beach Post

MIAMI GARDENS — The Dolphins practiced without two of their best players on Wednesday, only one day before the team travels to London.

Wide receiver DeVante Parker (hamstring/shoulder) did not practice, after missing last Sunday's loss to Tampa.

Cornerback Xavien Howard (groin) did not practice, after struggling in coverage last Sunday.

Among those who did practice were quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (ribs) and tight end Adam Shaheen (knee). Tagovailoa seemed fine as he uncorked a few deep passes.

Before practice, coach Brian Flores said he expects Tagovailoa and backup quarterback Jacoby Brissett (hamstring) will be available on Sunday.

The Tape Don't Lie:How Miami Dolphins wilted in loss to Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Miami Dolphins Snap Conclusions: From loss to Tampa Bay

Tua's Ribs:Tua Tagovailoa's progress encourages Brian Flores

Flores said Tagovailoa has said he feels fine and that the coach believes he's going to work through any pain or discomfort. 

Miami is already without wide receiver Will Fuller (hand), who is on injured reserve. They also recently traded returner and reserve receiver Jakeem Grant.

If Parker were unable to play against the Jaguars, Miami would lean again on rookie receiver Jaylen Waddle and Preston Williams, who stepped up against the Bucs.

Miami would also need to rely on tight end Mike Gesicki and running back Myles Gaskin, who is an excellent receiver.

Howard allowed multiple touchdowns on Sunday and had a hard time in particular keeping up with Antonio Brown.

Aug 2, 2021; Miami Gardens, FL, United States; Miami Dolphins cornerback Xavien Howard (25) watches during training camp at Baptist Health Training Complex. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

It's possible Howard is simply resting but if he were to miss the game, Miami could turn to Justin Coleman or Nik Needham as an outside cornerback, with the other playing inside.

Dolphins cornerback Byron Jones played through quadriceps and Achilles injuries against the Bucs, but also struggled at times.

Jones practiced on Wednesday.