The Dolphins persist in experiencing setbacks with their starting offensive linemen, as evidenced by their conclusion of the Jets game relying on four substitute players due to multiple injuries that have weakened the unit.
The Miami Dolphins’ sole offensive lineman who had been a consistent starter in every game was unable to complete Sunday’s match against the New York Jets and might need to break his streak of consecutive starts.
Austin Jackson sustained an oblique injury in the previous week’s loss to the Tennessee Titans, and it seems he aggravated it during the second quarter. Despite starting every game at right tackle this season and showcasing strong performance as one of the team’s most reliable offensive linemen, Jackson was sidelined for the second half of the Jets game. Kendall Lamm, primarily a left tackle with seven starts this season, stepped in as his replacement, assuming the right tackle position for the first time this year.
The Dolphins’ offensive line has been plagued by a series of injuries throughout the season. Connor Williams suffered a season-ending left knee injury, Isaiah Wynn has been absent for the latter half of the season due to a quadriceps injury that placed him on injured reserve months ago, and Liam Eichenberg played the Jets game at center while dealing with a calf injury. The team also signed Jonotthan Harrison and Matt Skura last week in anticipation of Eichenberg’s potential unavailability.
Moreover, Robert Hunt, the regular right guard, missed four games due to a hamstring strain and a subsequent re-aggravation. Terron Armstead, the left tackle, has been in and out of the lineup due to knee, quadriceps, and ankle issues.
The Dolphins have had to field their 10th different starting combination of offensive linemen against the Jets due to these injuries. If Jackson remains unable to play in the upcoming game against the Dallas Cowboys, it could mark the 11th different combination used this season. The team is heavily relying on backup players like Lamm, Eichenberg, Lester Cotton, the recent starting left guard, and Robert Jones, who made his second start at right guard against the Jets.
Furthermore, Dolphins pass rusher Jaelan Phillips faced a similar oblique and back injury earlier in the season, causing him to miss three games as advised by the medical staff.
The Dolphins will likely determine Jackson’s ability to play through the injury in the coming week as they prepare for the game against the Cowboys.
