The Miami Dolphins are preparing for their Week 1 battle with the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium, and while there's still more than a week until the game, there are still some injury situations that are worth monitoring early.
One of the most intriguing of them is at tight end, as the Dolphins placed Ben Sims and Cole Turner on injured reserve and currently have rookies Will Kacmarek and Seydou Traore battling injuries after the preseason.
Speaking to the media on Thursday, Dolphins head coach Jeff Hafley provided a positive update on Kacmarek, saying that he expects to have the third-round pick back on the practice field at their Baptist Health Training Complex next week.
The 23-year-old made a name for himself in college for his blocking,
but he also caught 59 passes for 713 yards and four touchdowns in 53 games between Ohio and Ohio State. Miami's hoping that he'll become a more well-rounded tight end in the NFL and contribute right away.
If neither Kacmarek or Traore can go against Las Vegas, the Dolphins may have to run with Greg Dulcich and the newly-signed Justin Joly at the position. They could also bring up Tre Turner from the practice squad as well if necessary.
This article originally appeared on Dolphins Wire: Dolphins expect to get injured rookie back at practice next week
