MIAMI GARDENS — Dolphins tight end Darren Waller, who came out of retirement to replace Pro Bowl tight end Jonnu Smith, sustained a hip strain before practice Wednesday and is unlikely to play in Sunday’s opener against Indianapolis, coach Mike McDaniel said Friday.

“While trying to prevent a setback, he had a setback,” McDaniel said.

Waller, a Pro Bowl selection in 2020, is the best receiving tight end on the roster. Julian Hill is more of an in-line or blocking tight end. Tanner Conner, an athletic tight end, excels more at special teams than from scrimmage.

McDaniel didn’t characterize Waller’s mindset but said he’s “just really eager to play with his teammates” and added, “ But I think you have to look at a big picture. I think you fail in life

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