Offense searching for a healthy center
New Miami Dolphins starter Jake Brendel appears to have suffered a setback in his return from a calf injury that had him begin the season on injured reserve.
Brendel, who has started the past three games at left guard and center, had his practice participation limited during Wednesday’s practice because of the calf injury, and he did not participate in Thursday’s practice.
“We just had one of those situations where he was running and felt something,” coach Adam Gase said. “We’re just going to see how he progresses through the rest of the week.”
Fortunately for Miami, it appears Travis Swanson, who missed Sunday’s win over the Buffalo Bills due to an ankle injury he suffered two weeks ago, is getting healthy enough to play in Sunday’s game against the New England Patriots.
Swanson’s practice participation has been limited the past two days, but Gase said he’s looked healthy.
“I’m better. We’re still taking things day by day and we’ll see how it works out,” said Swanson, who has started seven games this season.
Ted Larsen, who has started nine games at left guard this season, and Wesley Johnson, who has started 24 games at center in his six seasons, are two veterans who have experience playing center. Both will likely be considered if Swanson or Brendel aren’t cleared to play on Sunday.
Expect Larsen to remain Miami’s starting left guard even he’s nursing a neck injury that has impacted his performance the past few weeks.
Injury update: Cornerback Xavien Howard missed his second straight practice because of a knee injury in Sunday’s game.
If Howard, who leads the NFL with seven interceptions, can’t play against New England, the Dolphins would be forced to play Torry McTyer or Cornell Armstrong in the nickel package, along with Bobby McCain and Minkah Fitzpatrick.
Armstrong, who suffered a knee injury last Sunday, practiced without limitations on Thursday, hinting that he’s close to making a full recovery.
■ Receiver Danny Amendola participated in his second straight practice, testing out his injured right knee.
“He’s so competitive. He’s so tough. It’s all about team for him,” offensive coordinator Dowell Loggains said about Amendola. “If he can’t go, he can’t go and he’ll be the first one to tell you.”
Amendola, who leads the Dolphins with 48 receptions for 469 yards and one touchdown, missed the Bills game but hopes to be cleared to play against the Patriots, his former team.