As the Miami Dolphins look to inch their way into the playoffs, they will be without Pro Bowl center Mike Pouncey for the final three games of the season. Pouncey missed the first four games of the season while recovering from a fractured hip. The then returned for the next five games before suffering a setback. The three-time Pro Bowler has been out since.
According to the Miami Herald, he’s now apparently been placed on season-ending injured reserve.
This is a massive loss for a Dolphins team that might also be without quarterback Ryan Tannehill from some time. Tannehill suffered sprains to his MCL and ACL last week, a clear indication that his short-term status is questionable at best.
It goes without saying that Miami’s chances of earning a playoff spot are better with its starting quarterback under center. But let’s not ignore just how important Pouncey is to this team. In the five games he suited up in this season, Miami is averaging 26.6 points per outing. In the eight games the center has missed, his team is averaging just 18.5 points.
The Dolphins currently sit at 8-5 on the season and are tied for the final wild card spot in the AFC.