Dolphins' Jeff Hafley Unsure of Severity of Malik Willis' Groin Injury

Miami Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis may be dealing with a significant groin injury. The injury was clearly evident in Sunday's loss, as Willis looked to be a bit stiffer on runs.

Willis had appeared on the injury report with a groin injury ahead of the Detroit Lions game, but he was a full participant throughout the week. However, when asked about the injury, Dolphins head coach Jeff Hafley pointed to needing to talk to doctors.

As stated above, Willis appeared to be limited in his movements during the game on Sunday. He ran a bit gingerly and more slowly than usual to pick up first downs. 

In usual cases, Willis has been able to evade pressure, but that did not happen as well against the Lions. 

Hafley was asked about Willis groin tightness on Monday, but he stated that he had not met with the medical staff. He also revealed that there would be more information on Wednesday.

Hafley has not been forthcoming about injuries unless he knows all the information. That appears to be the case with Willis.

What can be indicated is that there could be a bigger injury going on with Willis. If that is the case, he will appear on the injury report on Wednesday. 

Should Willis be impacted in a way that he cannot play, it would presumably be Kyle McCord who would lead the Dolphins in their Week 10 matchup with the Indianapolis Colts.

Miami has also not been shy about adding players via the waiver wire and free agents, so it would stand to reason they would bring in another. Brady Cook is the third-string option and would presumably be the backup to McCord. 

The NFL trade deadline is also on Nov. 10, but it is not expected that the Dolphins will be buyers. However, an injury to Willis could be a situation that would prompt a potential chance of picking up another starting quarterback.

The only player who continues to be mentioned in trade talks is offensive lineman Austin Jackson. Jackson is on an expiring contract, and him being moved would make sense.

The issue with losing Jackson would mean the offensive line would then lose one of its starters, putting the quarterback in a tougher position. If the Dolphins believe the team is where it should be in terms of its growth, the organization might also choose to keep the players intact to get some more wins in 2026.