Tyreek Hill’s Dolphins were on fire last season with a killer defense and offense that could drop jaws! Their playoff dreams, however, took a hit against the Chiefs, and now injuries have gotten us all on edge. But don’t worry, Phins fans—ex-NFL star Plaxico Burress popped up on The Carton Show with a dash of hope for the aqua and orange team. 

“Look at their defense last year,” the former Jets’ WR boomed, highlighting Miami’s defensive dominance. “They were also ranked 10th in total offense! Teams with these numbers usually end up in the Super Bowl.” Burress believes a ‘magical’ scenario could unfold for the Dolphins if they snag the AFC East crown and that coveted home-field advantage in the playoffs.

Here’s how the magic might unfold. A healthy defense coupled with offensive stars like Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle sets the stage for a high-octane season. Miami’s complex scheme thrives on creating breathing room for these speed demons, and with the addition of Odell Beckham Jr., the receiving corps looks downright explosive. Adding six-time Pro Bowl veteran defensive tackle Calais Campbell gives the team a solid defense boost. Also, let’s not forget Tua Tagovailoa—the key to it all! With these pieces in place, the Dolphins could make some serious waves in the Super Bowl waters. 

But here’s the hiccup: radio host Craig Carton throws a wrench in these ‘magical’ plans. On The Carton Show, the 55-year-old pointed out, “Chubb got hurt in Week 17 and didn’t have surgery until January. Phillips got hurt at the end of November. These guys won’t be ready for Week 1, and that’s the real issue.” Carton ain’t wrong, though. The injuries to Nick Chubb and Jaelan Phillips can cast a shadow over Miami’s Super Bowl dreams. 

Will the Phins overcome these setbacks and make a deep playoff run? For now, it seems difficult with crucial players like Chubb and Phillips on the PUP list.

Tyreek Hill’s Dolphins pass rush in jeopardy without Jaelan Phillips and Bradley Chubb

Miami’s pass rush’s key components, starting outside linebackers Phillips and Chubb, will begin training camp on the PUP list (active/physically unable to perform) due to late-season injuries.

This isn’t exactly a shocker. Phillips tore his right Achilles’ tendon while playing against the Jets on Nov. 24 last season. The 25-year-old LB, however, has been spotted moving well in videos, hinting at a possible return during camp or even the early season. Phillips told ESPN that he’d be up for the season opener but didn’t guarantee availability for Week 1. Chubb’s situation seems difficult, though. His torn right ACL (knee) injury from Dec. 31 might sideline him for the first half of the season, although the Miami team hasn’t offered a concrete timeline. 

So, how will the Dolphins put up with such a major gap? Guess we’ll have to wait it out to uncover how they adjust their front line and who steps up to fill the gaps left by these injured stars.