Waddle entered 2024 with high expectations after signing a three-year, $84.75 million contract extension this offseason. Unfortunately, his fourth season resulted in his worst as a pro, as injuries to himself and Tua Tagovailoa undoubtedly hampered his production. A breakout by tight end Jonnu Smith (88-884-8) also didn’t help Waddle’s case, as the veteran tight end was targeted 109 times on the season. Waddle’s season ends with career lows in every receiving category (58-744-2), including targets (83). He rattled off three-straight 1,000-yard seasons to start his career before falling off a bit this season. Any hope of a bounce back will hinge heavily on Tagovailoa’s health, but there’s no reason to think Waddle can’t get back to form in 2025.

Waddle practiced in a limited capacity on Wednesday and Thursday before being upgraded to a full participant on Friday. While he is on track to play, Tua Tagovailoa’s (hip) doubtful status looms large. The Dolphins still have a chance to qualify for the playoffs though. Waddle would be a WR2 with a very wide range of outcomes if active.

Waddle has now gotten in back-to-back practices, even if they are with the “LP” designation. That seems to point to the 26-year-old being able to play after the star wideout missed the previous two contests. Fantasy managers obviously will want to wait-and-see and have a backup plan, but it does appear there’s a good shot of Waddle being on the field for Week 18 against the Jets.