Dolphins vs. Patriots

Tankersley’s injury means secondary could be weaker vs. Brady.

DAVIE — Rookie cornerback Cordrea Tankersley, who hasn’t practiced all week because of shoulder and ankle injuries, is listed as doubtful to play against New England on Monday, meaning the Miami Dolphins’ secondary could be at less than full strength against Patriots quarterback Tom Brady.

It’s not an ideal scenario, considering Brady carved up the Dolphins’ secondary for four touchdowns in the Patriots’ 35-17 victory over the Dolphins two weeks ago.

Tankersley, the rookie third-round pick from Clemson, would likely be replaced by slot cornerback Bobby McCain on the boundary in the base defense. In the nickel defense, cornerback Alterraun Verner likely plays the boundary with McCain retaining his slot duties, which is what Miami did in most of last week’s 35-9 victory over Denver.

The Dolphins could, however, opt to have Verner replace Tankersley on the boundary in the base defense, which is what they did for a few plays after Tankersley left the Denver game.

Dolphins running back Damien Williams, who was sharing starting backfield duties with Kenyan Drake, is out for the New England game with a shoulder injury, his second consecutive absence.

Right guard Jermon Bushrod (foot) and backup quarterback Matt Moore (foot) are also listed as out. That means Jesse Davis will again start at right guard and David Fales will serve as backup to starter Jay Cutler.

Williams’ absence means running backs Senorise Perry and De’Veon Smith will serve as primary backups to starter Kenyan Drake once again.