The Miami Dolphins will place offensive tackle Branden Albert on injured reserve which will put an end to his season according to ESPN.
The Dolphins have confirmed that Albert's season is over but have not provided specifics on the injury as of yet. With only seven weeks to go in the year, any serious injury will likely be season-ending. In this specific case, Albert could miss time next season as well. The first-year Dolphin suffered a torn MCL and ACL in his right knee during Sunday's game per the report.
Albert signed a five-year deal in the off-season and had been a big reason for Miami's offensive turnaround this season. Entering the last game, the Dolphins were one of the top offensive teams in the NFL over the previous five weeks. During the last six weeks, the Dolphins have gone 4-2 with both losses coming in the final minute of play.
Improving the offensive line was the biggest goal for the Dolphins this past off-season. In 2013, Miami allowed 58 sacks which paced the NFL and was a big reason for Ryan Tannehill's sub-par campaign. The quarterback has enjoyed an improved season with a couple of Pro Bowl type stat lines this year.
With Albert gone, Miami will likely turn to Ja'Wuan James going forward. James had been playing on the right side but will now serve as a left tackle for Miami. James was Miami's first round pick in this year's NFL draft.
On Thursday, Miami will take on the Buffalo Bills with both teams sitting at 5-4. The Bills won the first game between the teams earlier this season.
