Mike McDaniel reveals injury updates, Austin Jackson, Darren Waller

MIAMI GARDENS ― Coach Mike McDaniel is optimistic Miami Dolphins right tackle Austin Jackson will play against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday at Hard Rock Stadium.

Jackson missed 10 games with a toe injury.

"We'll let (Friday) play out," McDaniel said, adding, "He is testing the limits of his body. He is a dependable teammate. Most players I have coached would be on IR. If he is able to go, he will."

Jackson is an athletic and strong run blocker and though Larry Borom has done reasonably well as a replacement, this should be an upgrade.

"We're not having him play to be absolutely perfect," McDaniel said. "There are some things that are a little rusty that have to be knocked off. But we are seeing tonality and physicality. There has to be a reasonable expectation of performance relative to his high standard for himself."

Dolphins tight end Darren Waller has missed four games with a pectoral injury.

Waller has been a reliable target for Tua Tagovailoa when healthy this season.

"We'll see but he's in play (to play)," McDaniel said. "We'll see how he feels (Friday). If there is no setback I'm feeling optimistic."

Dolphins' injury report includes Austin Jackson, Darren Waller

Cornerback Rasul Douglas has missed two games with foot and ankle injuries.

"I feel very optimistic," McDaniel said. "He's eager."

The Dolphins could use Douglas opposite Jack Jones as JuJu Brents was recently placed on injured reserve with a foot injury.

Jaylen Waddle (foot) and Bradley Chubb (foot) have returned to full practice.

Miami Dolphins 'In The Hunt' How they can make NFL playoffs

Miami Dolphins need Austin Jackson Healthy and aggressive in run game

Miami Dolphins LB Jordyn Brooks Leads NFL in tackles. Zach Thomas is his ideal 'advisor'

Joe Schad is a journalist covering the Miami Dolphins and the NFL at The Palm Beach Post. You can reach him at [email protected] and follow him on Instagram and on X @schadjoe. Sign up for Joe's free weekly Dolphins Pulse Newsletter. Help support our work by subscribing today.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Will Miami Dolphins' Austin Jackson, Darren Waller play vs. Saints?