NFL10 hours ago2 min read

Dolphins Back Malik Willis As Starter While Kyle McCord Prepares To Step In

Miami Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis is on injured reserve, but coach Jeff Hafley confirmed he will start again when healthy.

The Shujaa deskKenyaPredictions

Willis Headed To Injured Reserve

Miami Dolphins coach Jeff Hafley announced on Wednesday that quarterback Malik Willis is expected to stay the starter when he recovers from his injury. Willis went on injured reserve for a mandatory minimum of four games after an MRI showed his groin injury had progressed to his core. The team medical staff decided he needed rest.

Willis is getting a second opinion this week to see if he needs surgery. He received treatment on his groin over the past two weeks, but he was hobbled in last week's loss to the Detroit Lions. He was held to single digit rushing yards for the second straight game. Hafley noted that Willis fought hard in that game, but the team wants him healthy so he can perform without risking more damage.

McCord Gets The Call Against Colts

With Willis out, second year quarterback Kyle McCord will make his first career start this Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts. Miami traded for McCord from the Green Bay Packers in August. He was a sixth round pick who led the NFL in passing touchdowns during the preseason.

McCord has mainly run Miami's scout team since arriving, but Hafley likes what he has seen. Hafley said McCord has a strong arm, sees the field well, and releases the ball fast. He added that McCord is decisive and aggressive, even though he lacks NFL game experience.

Building On College Success

The Philadelphia Eagles drafted McCord in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL draft. He finished his senior college year at Syracuse with an FBS leading 4,779 passing yards. Before that, he played three seasons at Ohio State and went 11 wins and one loss as a starter in 2023.

McCord said his college experience gives him confidence for this big moment. He noted that playing in major college games prepared him for the pressure, adding that once the first play starts, it will just feel like football. He also confirmed he has a full grasp of the playbook and can run any play offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik calls.

Teammates Impressed By Young QB

Right tackle Austin Jackson said McCord showed strong confidence in the huddle during Wednesday practice. Jackson recalled how McCord even spotted wrong formations and corrected teammates before the snap, which showed strong leadership.

Left tackle Patrick Paul praised McCord for his smart play and moxie. Paul said the offensive line has a job to keep McCord comfortable by building a solid pocket and supporting him on and off the field.

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