MIAMI, FL — The Miami Dolphins‘ defense took a significant hit during their Week 2 loss against the Buffalo Bills, as middle linebacker Anthony Walker Jr. suffered a rib injury late in the game. The Dolphins have since confirmed that Walker will be sidelined for the next 3 to 4 weeks with broken ribs, dealing a blow to a defense that has struggled to find its footing early this season.

Walker, one of the vocal leaders of Miami’s defense, had been a key figure for the team both on and off the field. Known for his tackling prowess and leadership, his absence will leave a noticeable gap in the middle of the Dolphins’ defense. Through the first two weeks, Walker totaled 3 tackles, 1 sack, and 1 pass defended. He showed strong discipline in Week 1 with a sack and a pass deflection, while in Week 2 against Buffalo, he added two more tackles to his tally.


Speaking to the media on Monday, Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel acknowledged the challenge ahead without Walker:

“Losing Anthony is tough, no doubt about it. He’s not only one of our best players on the field but also a true leader in the locker room. He sets the tone with his work ethic and dedication, and his presence will definitely be missed. But, as a team, we have to rally around this. Injuries happen, and this is where our depth needs to step up.”

McDaniel also praised Walker’s impact on the team’s young defenders, emphasizing his mentoring role:

“Anthony's a guy the younger players look up to. He’s always teaching, always pushing guys to be their best. Losing that presence for a few weeks is a blow, but we know he'll be involved as much as he can, even from the sidelines.”
Mike McDaniel

With Walker sidelined, the Dolphins will look to other options at middle linebacker to fill the void. Backup linebackers Jordyn Brooks and David Long Jr. will likely see increased roles as the Dolphins prepare for their Week 3 road game against the Seattle Seahawks.

The Dolphins’ defense has already faced significant pressure this season, and losing a veteran like Walker could add more strain to a unit that has allowed an average of 28 points per game through the first two weeks. His return, though, is expected to be swift, with the team hopeful he’ll be back closer to the 3-week mark.

For now, Miami will have to navigate the next few games without their defensive anchor, hoping to patch the gap in the middle of their defense as they strive to bounce back from the loss in Buffalo.