The Miami Dolphins have had a tough couple of weeks but are expected to be more competitive against the L.A. Rams.
While the Dolphins might still be missing some key players on defense when they meet the Los Angeles Rams on Monday night, one major player will be returning: Zach Sieler.
Sieler was back at practice on Thursday, and his return could significantly enhance a defense that struggled during his absence.
The dip in defensive performance may have been influenced by the quality of quarterbacks faced—transitioning from Mason Rudolph, Jacoby Brissett, and Anthony Richardson to Kyler Murray and Josh Allen. In Sieler’s two-game absence, the defense faltered, which was particularly costly just as the offense began to improve with Tua Tagovailoa‘s return.
In the last two games, the Dolphins allowed 389 and 325 yards, after previously limiting opponents to under 300 yards in their first six games—the only exception being the Seattle Seahawks who had 375 yards.
Although the Dolphins also missed Kader Kohou and Jevon Holland recently, Sieler’s absence was definitely the most impactful on defense.
Sieler’s absence affected the passing game significantly, contrary to expectations that it would impact the run defense more, as his presence is crucial for applying pressure up the middle against teams like Arizona and Buffalo.
This return is essential as the Dolphins aim to contain Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford and wide receivers Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua.
Looking ahead, if the Dolphins hope to contend for a playoff spot in the second half of the 2024 season, they will need their defense to elevate its performance—something that will be much easier with Sieler back in the lineup.
NEW LOOK FOR SIELER
Sieler addressed reporters on Thursday for the first time since his injury three weeks prior. He described the incident as unexpected, stating, “I didn’t even know exactly how it happened.”
He recounted, “I just remember my head going back. It was something I had to work through, and I’m glad to be back; it sucked missing two games.”
Before the unusual eye injury, Sieler hadn’t missed any games since joining the Dolphins in December 2019.
Moving forward, Sieler plans to wear a visor for eye protection. “I’ll have a visor on for my wife for the rest of my career,” he stated, emphasizing his determination to avoid a similar situation in the future.
With Sieler back, the Dolphins defense is poised for improvement.
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