Dolphins place Austin Jackson on injured reserve, expected to miss multiple games

Alex Parker

u/alex

Dolphins place right tackle Austin Jackson on injured reserve due to knee injury

Why it matters: The Dolphins will be without starting right tackle Austin Jackson for at least the next four games, impacting their offensive line and pass protection.

  • Coach Mike McDaniel on Austin Jackson's injury: "I didn't expect the injury to be season-ending."
  • Details on River Cracraft's activation: "Wide receiver River Cracraft, who was placed on injured reserve after injuring his shoulder in the team's first preseason game in August, was activated Monday."
  • Status of Tyreek Hill: "Tyreek Hill, the Dolphins' leading receiver, is questionable to play in Monday night's game against the Los Angeles Rams with a wrist injury."

What's new: The Dolphins have decided to place right tackle Austin Jackson on injured reserve due to a knee injury, sidelining him for at least the next four games.

By the numbers: Austin Jackson missed 15 games in the 2022 season due to various injuries but played in 17 out of 18 games in 2023.

Yes, but: While Jackson's absence is a blow to the Dolphins' offensive line, they have options in Kendall Lamm and Patrick Paul to step in and fill the void.

Zoom In: Austin Jackson's durability has been a concern, as he missed significant time in the previous season but managed to stay on the field for most of the 2023 campaign.

What's next: The Dolphins will need to rely on their depth and the performance of Kendall Lamm or Patrick Paul to maintain solid pass protection in Jackson's absence.

The bottom line: Losing a starting offensive lineman like Austin Jackson is never ideal, but the Dolphins have prepared for this scenario by having capable backups ready to step in and contribute. The team will have to adjust their game plan and protect quarterback J.J. McCarthy effectively without Jackson anchoring the right side of the line.