Dolphins’ Melvin Ingram set for 2023 debut after elevation; Cowboys T Tyron Smith out

Veteran pass rusher and former Pro Bowler Melvin Ingram could be in line to make his 2023 debut in Sunday’s game against the Dallas Cowboys after he was elevated from the practice squad Saturday.

Also called up for the Dolphins to the game-day roster was cornerback Ethan Bonner.

Ingram, 34, who played in every game for Miami in the 2022 season, was an expected elevation this week after he was signed Dec. 13 and the team waived fellow veteran outside linebacker Jason Pierre-Paul from the active roster Tuesday.

The Dolphins, who have edge defender Jaelan Phillips out for season with a torn Achilles, could use the experienced three-time Pro Bowl selection as a rotational pass rusher with Andrew Van Ginkel starting in Phillips’ former spot, opposite team sack leader Bradley Chubb.

Ingram’s elevation could hint at the status of defensive end Emmanuel Ogbah, who enters Sunday questionable with a hamstring injury. Second-year outside linebacker Cameron Goode could also be worked in after he received 20 defensive snaps in last week’s 30-0 win over the New York Jets.

Miami used its first of three available elevations on Ingram, with three games remaining in the regular season.

The 11-year veteran with 57 career sacks had 22 tackles, six sacks, a forced fumble and two fumble recoveries — one for a touchdown — last season with the Dolphins.

Bonner is elevated for a second consecutive week as Miami starting cornerback Xavien Howard is questionable with a hip injury. The Dolphins also have safeties Jevon Holland and Elijah Campbell questionable, both with knee injuries, along with rookie cornerback Cam Smith due to an ailing hamstring. If Campbell or Smith can’t play, Bonner could be utilized in their special teams roles — and provide depth in the secondary should more injuries occur in the game.

Dallas’ Smith out

The Cowboys will be without eight-time Pro Bowl and two-time All-Pro left tackle Tyron Smith for Sunday’s game.

Smith was downgraded from doubtful to out Saturday as he didn’t travel with the team due to his back injury.

Chuma Edoga is in line to start for Smith at the post that will be pivotal in protecting Dallas quarterback Dak Prescott’s blind side against Chubb, who has 9½ sacks for Miami.

The Cowboys also have six-time All-Pro right guard Zack Martin questionable with a thigh injury.