The Dolphins can still make the AFC playoff field, but need a win over the Jets on Sunday to stay alive in the race. With Tua Tagovailoa still recovering from his second concussion of the season, and Teddy Bridgewater dealing with a dislocated pinkie finger, rookie Skylar Thompson will start the pivotal game, coach Mike McDaniel announced Friday.
Tagovailoa will not be available for the game, but McDaniel expressed optimism that Bridgewater would be available to serve as the backup to Thompson, per Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald.
With the injury issues at the quarterback position, Miami also signed veteran Mike Glennon to the practice squad this week.
Thompson, a rookie out of Kansas State, was a seventh-round pick by the Dolphins in the 2022 NFL draft. He made his first career start against the Vikings in October, going 7-of-13 for 89 yards. On the season, he has completed 54.1% of his throws for 382 yards, one touchdown and three interceptions, adding 18 rushing yards.
He’ll go up against another quarterback who has spent time as a third-stringer this year. Joe Flacco gets the start for the Jets, as Mike White deals with an ongoing rib injury. Zach Wilson will serve as backup.
The Dolphins (8–8) need a win against the Jets, and a Patriots loss to the Bills to secure a wild-card spot. The games in Miami and Buffalo kick off at 1 p.m. ET.
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