The Miami Dolphins placed quarterback Malik Willis on injured reserve due to a groin injury, according to nfl.com.
Willis will miss a stretch of games including matchups against the Indianapolis Colts, Buffalo Bills, New York Jets, and Denver Broncos. His absence spans Weeks 10 through 13 of the season.
The roster move shifts the immediate responsibility for the Miami offense to Kyle McCord. The 24-year-old is poised to make his first NFL start this Sunday.
McCord’s path to the starting lineup follows a series of transactions involving several NFL franchises. He was originally selected by the Philadelphia Eagles as a sixth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Following his time in Philadelphia, he was traded to the Green Bay Packers. While with Green Bay, McCord reportedly received positive reviews within their system. The Packers subsequently traded him to Miami this offseason in exchange for a sixth-round pick.
So far this season, Willis and punter Bradley Pinion have been the only Miami players to attempt passes. That dynamic is expected to change with McCord’s debut.
The Dolphins are currently facing a season where a playoff berth is unlikely. This reality provides a window for McCord to demonstrate his capabilities in a starting role.
The team is looking to the practice squad to fill the immediate void left by Willis. Brady Cook, who previously served as a starter for the New York Jets last season, is currently on Miami’s practice squad and will likely be elevated to the backup position.

Willis's injury leaves the quarterback rotation short-handed. However, the roster rules allow for his return later in the year.
| Player | Status/Role | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Malik Willis | Injured Reserve | Groin injury; eligible to return Dec. 13 |
| Kyle McCord | Starter | Making first NFL start this Sunday |
| Brady Cook | Backup (Expected) | Currently on practice squad |
Willis remains eligible to return to the active roster for the home game against the Chicago Bears on Dec. 13, as reported by nfl.com.