CLEVELAND — The Miami Dolphins are gearing up to face the Cleveland Browns without their starting quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa, due to a hip injury.
As the Dolphins (7-8) enter this crucial matchup, they are aware that a victory is essential for maintaining their slim chances of making the playoffs. However, even if they manage to defeat the Browns (3-12), Miami will require assistance from other teams to extend their postseason aspirations.

Next weekend, the Dolphins will wrap up their regular season with a game against the New York Jets. Tagovailoa’s condition has worsened, being marked as doubtful after he was limited in practice throughout the week. The hip injury stems from a hit he sustained on December 15 during a game against Houston. This latest injury adds to a series of health issues for Tagovailoa, who had previously been sidelined earlier in the season due to a concussion.

In Tagovailoa’s absence, Tyler Huntley is set to take the helm as the starting quarterback for Miami. Huntley, who was once signed by the Dolphins as a free agent in March but later released at the end of training camp, will be facing the Browns for the fourth time this season.

Additionally, Miami will be missing wide receiver Jaylen Waddle, who is out with a knee injury. Waddle has made significant contributions this season, recording 54 receptions for 700 yards and two touchdowns.

The Dolphins brought in the 26-year-old Huntley to fill the void left by Tagovailoa following his third documented concussion during his professional career in September. Prior to joining Miami, Huntley spent four seasons serving as a backup to Lamar Jackson in Baltimore, holding a starting record of 4-8. Over his career, Huntley has completed 63.7% of his passes, amassing nine touchdowns and eight interceptions.