Swanson expected back; Amendola iffy
DAVIE — It is possible that the injury-plagued Miami Dolphins will regain two offensive starters for Sunday’s home game against the New England Patriots.
Travis Swanson is expected to return to his role as the team’s starting center, replacing Jake Brendel, who has missed the last two practices because of a calf injury and has been ruled out of Sunday’s game.
Swanson, who missed last Sunday’s 21-17 win over the Buffalo Bills because of an ankle sprain, practiced all week on a limited basis.
The fifth-year veteran has started seven games as Daniel Kilgore’s replacement, and his absence led to a number of communication breakdowns last week.
Danny Amendola, who missed the Bills game because of a right knee injury he suffered against the Colts, also practiced all week on a limited basis.
Amendola, who leads the Dolphins with 48 receptions for 469 yards and one touchdown, was listed as questionable on Friday’s injury report because he doesn’t have all of his mobility back.
“He’s so competitive. He’s so tough. It’s all about team for him,” offensive coordinator Dowell Loggains said about Amendola, who’d be facing his former team if he suits up Sunday (1 p.m., CBS). “If he can’t go, he can’t go and he’ll be the first one to tell you.”
If Amendola isn’t cleared to play, the Dolphins will likely use Kenny Stills as the team’s slot receiver and have Brice Butler serve as the flanker.