Van Noy’s return likely to bolster defensive effort

Miami also moves Callaway to active roster

The Miami Dolphins’

COVID-19 situation appears to have slightly improved.

The Dolphins activated outside linebacker Kyle Van Noy off the NFL’s reserve/

COVID-19 list on Saturday at the 4 p.m. deadline, making him eligible to play in Sunday’s game against the Los Angeles Chargers.

The Dolphins also announced receiver Antonio Callaway would be elevated from the practice squad to the active roster for the Chargers game, potentially giving quarterback Tua Tagovailoa another target in the passing game.

Van Noy’s activation bodes well for the Dolphins defense, which will still be without defensive tackle Christian Wilkins, who was not activated, but like Van Noy, designated to the

COVID-19 list on Thursday. The NFL’s reserve/

COVID-19 list deems a player has either tested positive or been in contact with someone who did test positive.

Van Noy, who signed a four-year deal in the offseason that could be worth $51 million, has 33 tackles, two fumbles forced, two sacks and four pass deflections in seven games this season. He missed Miami’s win over the New York Jets with groin and foot injuries.

Callaway, a former Miami Booker T. Washington High and UF standout, will play in his first game since joining the Dolphins in September.

Callaway is a former fourth-round pick by the Cleveland Browns in 2018. He has 51 career receptions for 675 yards and five touchdowns in 20 games.

He could grow into another capable target for Tagovailoa and the Dolphins, who will be without receiver Preston Williams for an indefinite period.

Williams suffered a foot injury during last week’s victory over the Arizona Cardinals, and was placed on injured reserve this week.

Dolphins running back Matt Brieda (hamstring), tight end Durham Smythe (concussion) and defensive back Jamal Perry (foot) are all questionable to play against the Chargers.

The Dolphins also expect to be without four assistant coaches for Sunday’s game.

Outside linebackers coach Austin Clark, quarterback coach Robby Brown, defensive line coach Marion Hobby and offensive quality control coach Kolby Smith will miss their second straight games due to COVID-19 protocols.

RICK SCUTERI | AP Dolphins linebacker Kyle Van Noy has been cleared to play against the Chargers after he was activated off the NFL’s reserve/ COVID-19 list on Saturday.