The Dolphins’ medical staff has its work cut out for it this week.
Five starters or key reserves missed practice Wednesday, the team’s first practice ahead of Miami’s important matchup with the Patriots.
Those missing Wednesday: Defensive end Cameron Wake (undisclosed), defensive end Andre Branch (knee), linebacker Chase Allen (foot/toe) and tight end A.J. Derby (foot). Wide receiver Danny Amendola also was not present at practice, but Wednesday has normally been his veteran rest day.
Branch will not play Sunday. Wake, meanwhile, should. But if he for some reason cannot go, the Dolphins will be very thin at end.