The Miami Dolphins are getting back one left guard at the same time they’re losing another (at least for a few weeks).
Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel told reporters Monday that Liam Eichenberg is set to return to practice after sitting out Texans week with a minor injury.
That’s certainly good news for the former second-round pick in his quest to be Miami’s LG1. And it’ll help soften the blow of losing Robert Jones for 4-6 weeks with a sprained MCL.
But even if neither is unavailable in Week 1, the Dolphins will still likely have their best opening-week offensive line in years — assuming Terron Armstead is indeed available to play, as is the hope.
Miami Dolphins Offensive Line
Armstead was spotted on the Dolphins’ sidelines in a walking boot during the team’s preseason game against the Houston Texans.
But with nearly three weeks left until season, and Armstead’s injury not serious, he appears on track to play against Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack.
As we discuss in the PFN Miami Dolphins Podcast (Season 1, Episode 3), the Dolphins actually have quality depth at that position.
This preseason, the Dolphins have averaged a staggering 5.8 yards per carry, and while the offensive line has given up seven sacks in eight quarters — and allowed a hit that concussed backup quarterback Mike White — most of those mistakes were committed by players who will not be on the active roster come Sept. 10.
The offensive line was a big reason the Dolphins’ offense looked much improved in Week 2 of the preseason. Other topics discussed in PFN MDP this week: The plan in the secondary, a look ahead at cuts week, and whether teams might consider an NBA-style maintenance plan someday.