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Jaylen Wright Out for Dolphins vs. Lions

Originally posted on Dolphins Talk | By Noah Clark | Last updated Nov 8, 2026 10:33 AM ET

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Jaylen Wright Out for Dolphins vs. Lions

The Miami Dolphins will miss running back Jaylen Wright in Sunday’s Week 9 matchup against the Detroit Lions.

According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Wright will miss the game against Detroit with a quadriceps injury. The third-year running back was officially listed as questionable on Miami’s final injury report Friday, but he is now expected to miss the game.

Wright missed Wednesday’s practice before returning as a limited participant on Thursday and Friday. Despite progress during the week, the injury will keep him out of the game against the Lions.

The news leaves Miami with even fewer options in an already depleted running back room.

Ollie Gordon II Expected to Carry the Load

With Wright sidelined, the Dolphins will once again lean heavily on Ollie Gordon II, who has emerged as Miami’s primary running back after De’Von Achane‘s season-ending knee injury.

Gordon has capitalized on his increased opportunities and established himself as the team’s most reliable option on the ground.

While Wright entered the season with hopes of carving out a significant offensive role, things have not gone according to plan.

Over six games, Wright has carried the ball 22 times for just 41 yards, averaging under two yards per attempt. His lack of production has allowed Gordon to solidify his position atop Miami’s running back depth chart.

Wright’s absence further underscores the need for Gordon to stay healthy and productive against a physical Detroit defense.

Who Steps Up Behind Gordon?

With Wright out, the Dolphins could turn to Kaytron Allen and Carlos Washington Jr. for depth behind Gordon.

Allen was also listed as questionable with a quadriceps injury, although he returned to full participation in Friday’s practice. His availability will be worth monitoring when Miami releases its official inactive list before kickoff.

Washington could also see additional opportunities, depending on how the Dolphins choose to distribute their running back snaps.

The situation gives offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik another challenge: keep Miami’s rushing attack productive without two of the team’s most explosive running backs.

Wright’s Absence Also Impacts Special Teams

While Wright has struggled to make a significant impact offensively this season, he has contributed in the return game.

In Week 8 against the New England Patriots, Wright returned five kickoffs for 142 yards, showing he can provide valuable field position even when his offensive opportunities have been limited.

His absence also means Miami will need to adjust on special teams, particularly on kickoff returns.

For a Dolphins team that has struggled to consistently move the football, losing a player who can generate explosive returns is another setback.

Another Challenge Against a Tough Detroit Team

The Dolphins enter Sunday’s contest 1-6 and face a 5-2 Detroit Lions team.

Miami already faces a tough matchup against Dan Campbell‘s squad, and losing Wright further limits the offense’s flexibility.

For quarterback Malik Willis, establishing a productive running game will be critical to keeping Detroit’s defense honest and avoiding obvious passing situations.

Gordon is expected to be central to that approach, but Miami will need contributions from its remaining running backs to avoid becoming too predictable.

Wright’s injury is another disappointing development in a frustrating season for the young running back.

The Dolphins will hope his absence is short-lived, but for Sunday, Miami must find a way to move the football without him.

The bigger question now is whether Gordon can continue carrying the workload and help Miami pull off an upset against one of the NFC’s better teams.

This article first appeared on Dolphins Talk and was syndicated with permission.

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