Dolphins place QB Malik Willis on injured reserve with groin injury

The Miami Dolphins have placed quarterback Malik Willis on injured reserve because of a groin injury, the team announced, according to Yahoo Sports. Willis will be sidelined for a minimum of four games and will not be eligible to return until at least Week 14 against the Chicago Bears.

Willis had started all eight games of the 2026 NFL season for the Dolphins, recording a 1-7 record. He completed 58.2% of his passes for 1,396 yards, six touchdowns, and six interceptions, while rushing for 232 yards and three touchdowns. His recent performance showed some improvement with a 61.5% completion rate and five total touchdowns compared to two interceptions over his last three starts.

The injury worsened over the past weeks, with Willis running less frequently and visibly hindered during the November 1 loss to the New England Patriots and the subsequent game against the Detroit Lions. An MRI revealed the groin injury had developed into a core muscle injury requiring rest.

With Willis sidelined, second-year quarterback Kyle McCord will start for the Dolphins. McCord was acquired from the Green Bay Packers before the season and is expected to play against the Indianapolis Colts in the upcoming game. McCord's playing style differs from Willis, potentially impacting the team's running game and passing dynamics, according to Yahoo Sports.

The Dolphins face the Colts, Buffalo Bills, New York Jets, and Denver Broncos during the four games Willis is expected to miss. The team is currently 1-7 and among the youngest in the league, which could influence their draft position next year.