For most of 2023, the Miami Dolphins appeared to be one of the most dangerous teams in the NFL, led by first-year head coach Mike McDaniels.
Finally, major injuries on both sides of the ball throughout the season forced the Dolphins to approach the playoffs with a weakened squad, and despite an amazing (11-6) regular season record, they were routed by the Kansas City Chiefs in the Wildcard Round of the NFL playoffs.
While the Dolphins are most known for their dynamic players at key skill positions such as quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and wide receiver Tyreek Hill, offensive tackle Terron Armstead plays an important part in the Miami attack, protecting his quarterback while blocking to open up openings in the running game.
Armstead, who is in Orlando enjoying the Pro Bowl with several of his teammates, believes the club is on the right track with a Super Bowl at the top of their minds.
“Our expectations are at an all-time high and that’s exactly the environment and situation you want to be in,” he told reporters. “I don’t want to be in a situation where six wins equals — no, no. It’s Super Bowl or nothing. That was not the expectation when I signed with Miami; it is now. So, I believe our trajectory is on track, and all we need to do now is finish the job.”
Still, following an injury-plagued season, Armstead is considering all options for 2024, even if it means leaving the game he loves.
Miami Dolphins Star Terron Armstead Undecided About NFL Future
Although Armstead was selected to the Pro Bowl, the outstanding offensive tackle is coming off a difficult season that has him contemplating his NFL future.
He was on the Dolphins’ injury report 13 out of 17 weeks during the regular season and missed seven games. Though the five-time Pro Bowler’s performance hasn’t suffered, his body has, and he’s considering retirement.
However, the 32-year-old acknowledged Friday at Pro Bowl Games practice that he has not made a decision yet. Since the Dolphins’ season ended in an AFC wild-card loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, he has been focused on improving his health and mind before making the expected decision.
“Just taking some time away from the game,” Armstead told NFL.com. “It was a lengthy and fluctuating season for me physically. I haven’t even begun the process of getting away after the playoff loss to the Chiefs. I’ve just been resting, healing, and enjoying my family.”
Terron Armstead has three seasons remaining on his five-year, $75 million contract with the Miami Dolphins.
He was arguably the most sought-after free agent in the 2022 offseason before signing with the Dolphins after nine seasons with the New Orleans Saints. He answered with back-to-back Pro Bowl appearances, but he has struggled with injuries throughout his career. He has only played 14 or more games three times in his 11-year career and has never played a full season. Since joining the Fins, he’s appeared in 23 of 34 regular-season games.
This year may have been the most terrible to endure.
“This season definitely was a challenge physically, probably this one more than the others this one stuck out,” he told reporters. “I’m feeling good, though, and recovering up. “I’ve just been resting and recovering; I haven’t done much since the playoffs.”
In the end, Terron Armstead’s list of ailments may prove to be too difficult to overcome.
Nonetheless, it’s evident that giving up the game would break his heart, and he believes he’s in the proper place with the Miami Dolphins.
“It’s just tough being away from the guys,” Armstead said of the psychological impact of missing games and practices. “Being separated from that energy, chemistry, and cohesiveness. That is why we play this game. You know, when you get into the huddle with your teammates, you talk, have fun, and make light of situations. Then, on game day, you experience the enthusiasm of the fans, whether at home or away. It’s just an atmosphere that cannot be recreated. When you’re not playing, you’re left feeling empty. It’s difficult to deal with.
