Storm Duck Returned to Practice for Miami Dolphins
The cornerback began a 21-day window after missing the start of the 2026 season on the injury list.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Football
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Miami Dolphins cornerback Storm Duck practiced with the team on Tuesday for the first time since the start of training camp. The team officially opened a 21-day window for the player, who had been sidelined on the Physically Unable to Perform list.
Why it matters
The practice window is a critical step in the team's roster management as they navigate injuries across the defense. Officials must now decide within three weeks whether to return Duck to the 53-man active roster or keep him on the list.
The Dolphins opened a 21-day evaluation period for Duck, who remains ineligible to play in games until after the fourth week of the regular season. This roster update coincides with broader injury reports, including Darrell Baker Jr. remaining on the list.
The players
Storm Duck
Miami Dolphins cornerback who returned to practice from the Physically Unable to Perform list.
Darrell Baker Jr.
Miami Dolphins player who remains on the Physically Unable to Perform list.
Keith Cooper Jr.
Player who was re-signed by the Dolphins to the practice squad.
The details
NFL rules allow players to return to the practice field after spending two weeks on the Physically Unable to Perform list. During this 21-day period, the team will evaluate his progress before choosing his status for the remainder of the season. In other roster moves, the team re-signed Keith Cooper Jr. to the practice squad.
Timeline
Storm Duck participated in his first practice of the season on September 30, 2026.
The Miami Dolphins face the Minnesota Vikings on October 4, 2026.
Beyond the 305
This move follows the league-wide protocol governing the Physically Unable to Perform list, which dictates exactly when an injured player can resume football activities. It aligns with standard NFL practice windows that teams utilize to manage their 53-man rosters throughout the season.
Fans should monitor the team's injury reports closely over the next three weeks to see if Duck is cleared for game-day activity. This roster flexibility allows the front office to adjust the defense while managing the constraints of the regular season calendar.
The takeaway
The team has three weeks to determine if Duck returns to the field for game play. Keep an eye on the official roster announcements leading up to the team's next few games.
What happens next
The Dolphins must reach a final decision on Storm Duck's status within three weeks of the practice window opening.
Further reading
For more updates on the roster, check our coverage of the Miami Football.
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