Dolphins OT Terron Armstead hopes to end 2024 on the field

Despite seemingly re-aggravated his troublesome knee late in the second quarter of Miami’s win over the Cleveland Browns, Terron Armstead will begin Sunday’s game against the New York Jets on the field.

The veteran offensive lineman was active, and will likely start at his usual left tackle spot, opening the door for rookie Patrick Paul to make his first start of the season at right tackle.

Paul has started two games previously for Armstead because of the concussion he suffered in the first month of the season, and the knee injury that forced the five-time Pro Bowler to sit out all but two series of the Dolphins’ overtime win over the New York Jets.

Armstead, who is concluding his 12th NFL season, has been battling injuries his entire Dolphins career, and that includes his struggles with his troublesome knees, which he’s had operated on multiple times.

While he hasn’t committed to playing next season, according to Mike McDaniel the Dolphins would welcome the team captain back with open arms if he wants to continue playing.

Armstead is slated to make $14.3 million next season, but will likely be asked to restructure his contract, much like he did before this season, dropping his salary into the $10 million range.

“There are conversations that he has to have with his family and whatever, but what a huge piece of our team he is. Just in terms of where we started off and where our mindset is in tough times or in good times. He’s one of the guys that everyone looks to,” McDaniel said. “You’re always hopeful for that. I’m not taking him for granted for any moment.”