Tyler Goodson’s status has been a talking point all week as the Indianapolis Colts get ready to host the Miami Dolphins in their Week 1 clash. The Colts haven’t won an opener in more than a decade, and every roster spot matters if they want to flip that streak. Goodson’s elbow injury from the preseason has left fans wondering if he’ll be available for Sunday.
Will Tyler Goodson play against the Miami Dolphins tonight? (Sept. 7)
No, Goodson will not suit up for the Colts in Week 1. He was listed as questionable after limited practice sessions on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, but the team elevated Ulysses Bentley from the practice squad. That move signals Indianapolis will keep Goodson sidelined while he recovers.Goodson’s absence impacts both depth at running back and special teams. Jonathan Taylor remains the starter, with rookie DJ Giddens expected to serve as his primary backup. Bentley gives Shane Steichen another body in the rotation, but coordinator Brian Mason will have to shuffle his special-teams unit without Goodson’s presence.
Indianapolis Colts vs. Miami Dolphins Week 1 game details
Date: Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025Time: 1 p.m. ETVenue: Lucas Oil StadiumLocation: Indianapolis, IndianaTV/Stream: CBS | Paramount+The Dolphins enter without key contributors. Tight end Darren Waller, cornerback Ethan Bonner, and running back Jaylen Wright are all ruled out. Guard James Daniels is questionable. Still, wideout Tyreek Hill and running back De’Von Achane are cleared to play.For the Colts, Daniel Jones makes his Indy debut after winning the quarterback competition over Anthony Richardson. Defensive tackle DeForest Buckner was held out of Friday’s practice for rest, a planned measure.
Tyler Goodson’s role and the Colts’ bigger picture
Goodson was expected to serve as depth behind Taylor and provide value on special teams. Without him, the Colts will rely on rookies and practice-squad call-ups. Bentley and Giddens get a big opportunity to prove they belong, while Taylor shoulders most of the workload.This matchup also puts pressure on Jones to prove he can stabilize the Colts’ offense after turbulent years at quarterback. On the other sideline, Tua Tagovailoa looks to show he can stay healthy and lift Miami toward the postseason. Both teams have high-stakes storylines, but for Indianapolis, Goodson’s absence could quietly influence field position and special-teams execution.