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Chris Brooks' injury opens the door for this Dolphins running back

On Saturday night, Chris Brooks looked like the player he was before his injury in 2023. He looked fast and physical and the Miami Dolphins clearly considered him as part of the 53-man roster.

Then he was injured again.

Brooks was reported to have suffered a shoulder injury, but it is now being reported to be a concussion. What is clear is that his future on the roster, at least for 2024, will be a question mark. Brooks could end up on the IR or PUP list again. Even if he doesn't end up on the IR list, it could be difficult for Brooks to make the final 53.

If Brooks can't recover, Jeff Wilson could be the biggest beneficiary of his injury. It's annoying when a player is out, especially a promising one, but when injuries happen, someone else inevitably benefits.

Wilson is on the 53-man bubble. He hasn't done much in the preseason and is overshadowed by Raheem Mostert, De'Von Achane and Jaylen Wright. Brooks was considered the fourth running back, but the injury now opens the door for Wilson.

“Chris Brooks' injury (appeared to be shoulder or collarbone) reduces his chances of making the starting 53; he underwent further tests Sunday,” writes Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald.

One player to keep an eye on is Salvon Ahmed. He was the forgotten running back in the offseason, but he made the 53rd overall last year. If the Dolphins don't think Wilson is the right fit, Ahmed could make the team. The Dolphins could also look for help on the free agent list after recent cuts.

Brooks has impressed his coaches and the Dolphins fans, but if he can't stay healthy, there's no reason for him to stay. Hopefully he gets good news at his medical and makes the roster.

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