Sanders Status Still Uncertain
Miami Dolphins kicker Jason Sanders remains on injured reserve due to a hip injury sustained during the preseason, leaving fans and the team in a state of uncertainty. Despite being eligible to return since Week 5, the timeline for his recovery remains unclear as the Dolphins navigate their season without their starting kicker.
Sanders was placed on IR with a designation to return after the Dolphins trimmed their roster to the mandated 53-player limit in late August. Initially, reports indicated that his recovery could take 5-6 weeks. However, that timeframe has elapsed, and the Dolphins have yet to provide a definitive update on his status.
Patterson Steps In
In Sanders’ absence, Riley Patterson has stepped up as the team’s kicker. After being elevated from the practice squad for the first three games, Patterson has since secured a spot on the active roster. Special teams coordinator Craig Aukerman expressed uncertainty regarding Sanders’ return, stating that while he doesn’t know when Sanders will be back, he is optimistic about his eventual recovery.
“Jason’s doing really well right now. He’s working his tail off to get back,” Aukerman noted. “I just want him to be healthy and ready to go. We’re taking it day by day, week by week, and when he’s ready, we’ll be excited to have him back.”
As the season progresses, Patterson has performed admirably, successfully converting 7 of 8 field goal attempts. His lone miss came against the L.A. Chargers when he was wide right from 57 yards. However, he rebounded with successful kicks from 47 and 27 yards, showcasing resilience.
The Sanders Difference
While Patterson has filled in capably, his performance highlights a stark contrast when compared to Sanders. The Dolphins’ recent loss to the Chargers underscores the importance of a reliable kicker, as Patterson’s missed field goal directly impacted the game. Following that miss, the Chargers capitalized on the advantageous field position to secure a 9-7 lead with a drive culminating in a field goal.
Long-range kicking has become an essential aspect of today’s NFL, and Patterson struggles in this area. He has converted just 4 of 10 career attempts from 50 yards or more, including a mere 1 for 4 in the last two seasons. In stark contrast, Sanders boasts an impressive career mark of 33 for 48 from that distance, and he excelled last season with a remarkable 12 for 14.
The Dolphins’ decision to extend Sanders’ contract a couple of years ago speaks volumes about the trust placed in his abilities. While Patterson continues to do a commendable job as a temporary replacement, the urgency for Sanders to return to the lineup has never been clearer. The team needs his experience and skill set to navigate the challenges ahead successfully.
