Dolphins call up secondary help before Thursday’s game against Jacksonville

JACKSONVILLE — The Miami Dolphins got some extra help in their secondary, hoping to soften the blow the team’s defense has endured during the first two games of the season.

Dolphins cornerback Tae Hayes was promoted from the practice squad to the team’s active roster before Thursday night’s game against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Hayes, who started his career with the Jaguars, is a feisty defender who played in two games for the Dolphins to end last season, totaling seven tackles (four solo) and two passes defensed.

His presence was needed in Miami’s secondary, which was without cornerback Byron Jones, who is sidelined with a groin injury.

On the outside, rookie first-round pick Noah Igbinoghene and former Pro Bowler Xavien Howard started at cornerback.

The Jaguars chose not to risk Chark on a short week. He came into Week 3 with seven receptions for a team-leading 109 yards and a touchdown this season, and averaging a team-best 15.6 yards a catch.

Miami’s defensive attention turned to Jaguars receiver Keelan Cole (11 catches, 105 yards, two touchdowns), while rookie Laviska Shenault Jr. had caught passes (six for 72 yards and a touchdown) and run the football (seven carries for 47 yards) for Jacksonville in its first two games.

The Jaguars were without veteran kicker Josh Lambo (hip) and starting center Brandon Linder (knee). Tyler Shatley started at center, while undrafted rookie Brandon Wright handled the kicking duties.

Along with Jones, Dolphins receivers Malcolm Perry and Lynn Bowden Jr., safety Clayton Fejedelem, defensive end Jason Strowbridge and offensive tackle Adam Pankey were inactive for Thursday’s game.

Chark, Linder, cornerbacks Josiah Scott and Luq Barcoo, defensive tackle Doug Costin and quarterback Jake Luton were inactive for Jacksonville.