FILE - In this Sept. 23, 2018, file photo, Miami Dolphins cornerback Xavien Howard (25) runs after intercepting the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Oakland Raiders, in Miami Gardens, Fla. Howard leads the NFL in interceptions, and his takeaway skills are a big reason the Miami Dolphins are in the playoff picture despite a soft defense and sputtering offense. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson, File)

DAVIE, Fla. (AP) -- NFL interception leader Xavien Howard was ruled out of the Miami Dolphins' game Sunday against New England because of a left knee injury, compounding the team's challenge facing Tom Brady.

Center Jake Brendel was also ruled out because of a calf injury. Receiver Danny Amendola, limited in practice all week, is questionable to play against his former team.

Howard might be able to return for next week's game at Minnesota, coach Adam Gase said Friday.

Howard was hurt when tackled following an interception in Sunday's win over Buffalo. He missed only one play but sat out practice this week . The Dolphins have declined to say whether the third-year cornerback underwent surgery. He has seven interceptions, including two in each of the past two games.

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