MIAMI GARDENS — The Miami Dolphins’ offensive line was completely different after starting right tackle Austin Jackson missed the final nine games of last season following knee surgery.
“I hated to leave the season the way I did last year with so much at stake in terms of fighting for playoffs and stuff like that, but my situation with my knee was something I had to take care of,” Jackson said during organized team activities.
Jackson, 25, has already played five seasons for the Dolphins and his play has steadily improved each season.
“Did some people not believe in me?” Jackson said. “Sure, but I always believe in myself and my work ethic, so I was ready.”
Jackson’s athleticism is an ideal fit for Mike McDaniel’s zone scheme. And he can be a devastating second-level blocker in the run game.
Jackson, who says he’s fully healthy, is also Tua Tagovailoa’s blind-side protector.
With left tackle Terron Armstead retired, Jackson should establish himself as a young veteran anchor for Miami.
Why Austin Jackson is 9th-best Miami Dolphins player
Jackson and center Aaron Brewer are Miami’s best offensive linemen.
When healthy, newcomer guard James Daniels should have a positive impact.
The Dolphins are banking on the upsides of first-year starters Patrick Paul and Jonah Savaiinaea.
Jackson should be a player that fellow offensive linemen look to for leadership in 2025.
On the field, McDaniel says Jackson looks as good as ever. That’s huge for Miami’s chances this season.
Telling Stat
When Austin Jackson started at right tackle last season, the Dolphins averaged 133.9 rushing yards per game. When he was injured and out, the Dolphins averaged 59.4 rushing yards per game.
How we see Austin Jackson’s Dolphins future
Jackson was once seen as a liability but his presence on the Dolphins offensive line is now a clear strength.
Jackson has two years left on a 3-year, $36 million extension.
That is a very reasonable contract for a player of his skill level.
Joe Schad is a journalist covering the Miami Dolphins and the NFL at The Palm Beach Post. You can reach him at jschad@pbpost.com and follow him on Instagram and on X @schadjoe. Sign up for Joe’s free weekly Dolphins Pulse Newsletter. Help support our work by subscribing today.
This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Miami Dolphins Top 10 players countdown: Tackle Austin Jackson is No. 9
Reporting by Joe Schad, Palm Beach Post / Palm Beach Post
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