Dolphins Place Malik Willis on Injured Reserve

The Miami Dolphins have placed quarterback Malik Willis on injured reserve with a core muscle injury, according to reports citing NFL reporter Tom Pelissero. Willis is expected to miss at least four games, while rookie Kyle McCord is expected to make his first career start against the Indianapolis Colts on November 15.

The reported injury developed from a groin problem that had affected Willis’s mobility. An MRI showed a core muscle injury, according to the reports. The expected absence is not considered season-ending, but no exact return date has been established.

McCord, a 2025 sixth-round pick, is expected to take over as Miami’s starting quarterback while Willis is sidelined. The Dolphins’ final roster and game-day designations will confirm the arrangement. Brady Cook is expected to provide backup depth, but his role depends on a roster move or activation; one report said he was on Miami’s practice squad.

Coach Jeff Hafley said Monday that Willis’s groin was tight during the Dolphins’ loss to Detroit on Sunday. Hafley said he had not yet met with the medical staff to discuss whether Willis would sit, and planned to address the question Wednesday. The subsequent...