Miami Dolphins’ Austin Jackson makes impactful return, but future remains in limbo
Austin Jackson’s return to the Miami Dolphins in their Week 13 victory over the New Orleans Saints was a highly anticipated moment for the team and its fans. After a lengthy absence due to a toe injury sustained in the first game of the season against the Indianapolis Colts, Jackson’s presence was felt immediately. Despite missing significant time during the summer, his return marked a pivotal moment in the Dolphins’ offensive line.
The Impact of Jackson’s Return
Jackson’s performance was crucial for the Dolphins, particularly in the running game. Playing 58 offensive snaps, he helped propel Miami to an impressive 164 rushing yards on 32 carries, averaging 5.1 yards per carry. This marked the team’s third consecutive game averaging over five yards per carry.
Coach Mike McDaniel praised Jackson’s aggressive mentality, saying, “He had a mindset of violence that we were counting on. We put him at the point of attack for a ton of things, and we kinda measured our expectations… Overall, he probably exceeded my expectations to a degree and made us a better football team with his tonality.”
Jackson’s physicality and ability to create space were evident throughout the game, particularly in their outside-run concepts. One notable play included a crack-toss where Jackson pulled into space to deliver an impactful block, showcasing his skill set and aligning with the Dolphins’ aggressive approach.
Areas for Improvement
However, Jackson’s return was not without its challenges. While his contributions to the running game were significant, his performance in pass protection left room for improvement. He was charged with three pressures and two hurries, a statistic that reflects a consistent struggle in this aspect of his game.
One of the pressures resulted in a sack by Cameron Jordan, another forced Tua Tagovailoa to scramble, leading to another sack. Jackson’s battle against a seasoned rusher like Jordan highlighted the necessity of fine-tuning his pass-blocking skills, especially after being sidelined since Week 1. Despite the rustiness, the Dolphins are aware of his past struggles in this area.
The Uncertain Future for Jackson
While Jackson’s return is a positive sign for the Dolphins as they make a push for the playoffs, questions loom regarding his long-term future with the team. With his contract entering its final year, he carries a significant cap hit of $15.8 million for 2026. The Dolphins could consider a post-June 1 cut, which would allow them to manage their salary cap while potentially opening up options for a replacement.
The reality is that Jackson’s durability has been a concern. Over the past four seasons, he has played more than eight games just once, accumulating a troubling history of injuries. This raises the question of whether it is worth the risk to rely on him as a starter moving forward.
As the Dolphins navigate their playoff ambitions, Jackson’s ability to contribute on the field will be vital. Yet, the franchise must weigh the implications of his injury history as they make crucial decisions this offseason. Regardless of what unfolds, Jackson has proven he can help the Dolphins win games when healthy.
