Dolphins likely to get Jones back

DAVIE — One injured Miami Dolphins starter seemed close to a return to action, while another prominent starter did not practice Wednesday.

Dolphins safety Reshad Jones, who was inactive last Sunday against the Oakland Raiders with a shoulder injury, went through a number of defensive drills as a limited participant alongside teammates in practice.

Jones could likely return to action for the Dolphins (3-0), who visit the New England Patriots (1-2) on Sunday at 1 p.m. at Gillette Stadium.

“I feel real good,” Jones said after practice. “I’m just going to take it day-by-day, a day at a time, and see how I feel come Friday, later on in the week.”

Longtime Dolphins defensive end Cameron Wake did not practice, sitting out with a knee injury.

Gase said Wake is among the group of Dolphins players “banged up” after the win over the Raiders.

“We’re taking it one day at a time right now,” Gase said when asked about Wake.

Gase said it was his decision to make Jones inactive for the game, although Jones may have wanted to play.

Gase said Jones was not at full strength, still sore from suffering the injury in the Week 2 victory over the New York Jets. He added that Jones and Raiders running back Marshawn Lynch have a knack to “find each other” when they play.

“He practiced [Wednesday] so that’s a good sign for us,” Gase said of Jones. “We’ll just keep evaluating him after every practice and see how he feels, and once we get closer to the game, we’ll have a better idea.”

Three other players did not practice due to recent injuries: Dolphins defensive end Andre Branch (knee), linebacker Chase Allen (foot), and tight end A.J. Derby (foot).

Other players listed on Miami’s injury report, but were full participants on Wednesday: quarterback Ryan Tannehill (right shoulder), defensive tackle Davon Godchaux (ankle), cornerback Bobby McCain (shoulder) and long snapper John Denney (shoulder).

Dolphins add Valoaga: The Dolphins added defensive end Jeremiah Valoaga (6-6, 275) to their practice squad on Wednesday.

Valoaga flew to South Florida on Tuesday night after a workout with the Atlanta Falcons on Tuesday, and was immediately signed after working out on Wednesday.

Valoaga, who went undrafted out of UNLV, appeared in nine games for the Detroit Lions last year, totaling five tackles and a sack.