The Miami Dolphins’ receiving unit took an off-field blow in Week 2.

Wideout Malik Washington was fined $5,611 for unnecessary roughness after using his helmet during a play with 6:13 left in the third quarter against the New England Patriots.

The penalty underscores the NFL’s strict stance on player safety. Washington’s fine is the latest example of the league cracking down on dangerous contact to preserve both integrity and protection on the field.

The incident involved Patriots rookie safety Craig Woodson, who was shaken up after absorbing a helmet-to-helmet collision with Washington.

Woodson was evaluated in the blue medical tent and cleared to return, missing just four defensive snaps.

On the field, Washington had a standout moment despite the fine. The second-year receiver finished with one catch for two yards on two targets and added three carries for 23 yards.

His snap percentage ticked up from 58% in Week 1 to 61% in Week 2, signaling his growing role behind Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle.

Malik found himself in the middle of a betting storm after the NFL ruled one of his big plays against the Bills as a rush. Not a reception. What looked like a short catch from Tua Tagovailoa behind the line of scrimmage wiped away receiving yards for Washington, leaving frustrated bettors fuming as their slips flipped from green to red.

But for him, it was at least a good thing that he was able to shrug off a nagging thumb issue. Nevertheless, it was for a 31-21 defeat, in Week 3.

In Week 2, he delivered a 74-yard kickoff return touchdown that briefly gave Miami the lead. But New England answered right back with a return of its own, flipping momentum and sealing a 33–27 win.

The Dolphins now sit at 0–3. So, no doubt the fingers are being pointed towards Mike McDaniel for failing at his job

Mike McDaniel’s seat is not cooling anytime soon

Mike McDaniel’s Dolphins are 0–3. This is enough to test patience in Miami.

Despite the early struggles, the front office insists it’s standing by McDaniel and general manager Chris Grier. NFL insider Ari Meirov has reminded that McDaniel signed an extension just last August.

Owner Stephen Ross has shown support. But support in September can look very different by December if the losses keep piling up.

The frustration boiled over after Sunday’s defeat to Buffalo, where McDaniel called out the NFL for ignoring what he believed was a Josh Allen fumble at the end of the first half. O

n the play, Allen bobbled the snap in victory formation before recovering and kneeling. But the officials let it slide without review.

McDaniel admitted it was a test of his “mental discipline” not to erupt in the moment. But said the team will push the league for an explanation. For him, it was less about one play and more about trying to send a message that Miami won’t roll over.