MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — Bradley Chubb’s latest experience on the football field is one he wishes to forget, marked by excruciating pain and a serious injury. The incident occurred on New Year’s Eve during a heavy 56-19 defeat against the Baltimore Ravens. Chubb was attempting to tackle running back Melvin Gordon III when he fell and ultimately required a cart to leave the field.
Reflecting on that moment, Chubb recalled, “I just remember screaming my lungs out on the field because of the pain I was in.” The injury resulted in significant damage to his right knee, including a torn anterior cruciate ligament, meniscus, and patellar tendon, necessitating an extensive five-hour surgery.
“It’s been an up-and-down journey for sure,” Chubb commented, expressing gratitude for the support he received from family and friends during his recovery. He noted how his parents and girlfriend helped him navigate the tough times, marking the contrast between his initial recovery phase and his current progress: “Seeing from when I was there to where I am now, it’s been nothing short of a blessing.”
Chubb started the current season on the physically unable to perform list, but was designated to return to practice last week by the Miami Dolphins. Head coach Mike McDaniel opted not to activate Chubb for the game against the New York Jets on Sunday, as he prioritizes his careful return after an 11-month hiatus from competitive play.
On Wednesday, McDaniel indicated that Chubb would likely increase his practice participation, alongside linebacker Cameron Goode, who has also been sidelined due to a knee injury. Their readiness for action this Sunday will hinge on their performance in practice throughout the week.
“For me, I’m just waiting to see the signs of guys that are unable to tolerate not playing in the games anymore and that they’re ready,” McDaniel explained. He elaborated about the importance of assessing players’ conditions, emphasizing the need to not rush anyone back into action too quickly.
Chubb shared his optimism regarding his return to practice but refrained from predicting when he might step back onto the field for games. “I’m just taking it day by day. I’m not trying to look big picture right now,” he stated, focusing on how his body responds to the various challenges he faces in training.
Since joining the Dolphins in a trade with Denver in November 2022, Chubb has made a notable impact. By Week 17 of last season, he had registered 11 sacks, led the league with six forced fumbles, along with two fumble recoveries and 78 tackles, marking an outstanding statistical year for him.
“At the top of the world,” Chubb remarked when reflecting on his previous successes, albeit with a sense of humility. This marked the third occurrence of an ACL injury for him; he previously tore his left ACL while with the Broncos in 2019, as well as suffering the same injury in high school.
Chubb’s return would be a significant asset for the Dolphins’ defense, which has faced challenges in recent games, including last week’s win against the Jets. Injuries have plagued the team, notably impacting linebacker Jaelan Phillips, who is out for the season after suffering an ACL tear in Week 4.
Observing the Dolphins’ turbulent season, which saw them start 2-6 partly due to quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s concussion-related absence, has been tough for Chubb. Yet, he maintained a sense of thankfulness for his journey and looks forward to making a new memory when he steps back onto the field. “Being on that field the last time screaming and holding my leg and doing all this,” Chubb said, “it would be cool to get back on there and have a new memory of my last football snap.”