After winning three of their last four games, the Miami Dolphins are technically “in the hunt” in the AFC playoff race. They have a chance to stay afloat over the next couple of weeks as they are set to take on less-than-formidable opponents, and they are getting some reinforcements back that should ultimately help their cause.
Dolphins Get Two Key Pieces Back Ahead Of Week 13
Austin Jackson has been a key piece of Miami’s offensive line since 2020, but has struggled with injuries throughout his career. It has been the case in 2025 as well, as he has missed the last 10 games after suffering a toe ailment in Week 1. But he is finally set to make his return on Sunday against the Saints, as the Dolphins announced that he was activated on Saturday.
🚨 BREAKING: Austin Jackson is being activated from injured reserve and is set to return this Sunday vs. New Orleans Saints. (@MiamiDolphins) #PhinsUp pic.twitter.com/TxZ7urRaVg
— FinsXtra (@FinsXtra) November 29, 2025
Miami’s front line isn’t considered a strength, but the unit has played well enough in recent weeks to help the offense. Jackson’s return should be another positive.
Tight end Darren Waller was also activated on Saturday. He has played in just four games so far this year, but has had flashes of brilliance during his few opportunities. He scored two touchdowns in his first appearance in Week 4, and caught all five of his targets for 78 yards and a score the following week.
Is It Too Little Too Late For Miami?
Tua Tagovailoa and the Dolphins passing game has been better over the last month, but the attack is still missing some of the trusted production that they lost with the Tyreek Hill injury. Waller has shown that he can be a reliable target for his quarterback, and he gives Miami the legit red zone option that they desperately need.
The Dolphins are activating TE Darren Waller from injured reserve and he’ll play Sunday against the Saints, per sources.
Waller scored four TDs in his first three games before suffering a pectoral injury Oct. 19. Now, Miami’s red-zone weapon returns. pic.twitter.com/n2ZmET6cbk
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) November 29, 2025
It is likely all for nothing. The Dolphins enter the week with less than a 1% chance of making the playoffs, and would need to win each of their final six games in order to qualify. Even then, they’d only be up to 27%, pending other AFC results.
They will be playing at home inside Hard Rock Stadium on Sunday, and are listed as 5.5 point favorites over New Orleans.
