This could be a big blow for the Miami Dolphins if they make the NFL postseason.
The Miami Dolphins are two games away from making the AFC playoffs for the first time since 2016. If they do, they could be without a focal leader of the defense.
Dolphins linebacker Elandon Roberts left the game in the third quarter with a knee injury. He would be carted off after making a goal line stop against Las Vegas Raiders running back Devontae Booker.
According to reporters, he was seen grabbing his knee, visibly in pain from the hit. The Dolphins players all were seen giving him support before the cart took him back to the locker room for further evaluation.
Roberts has been an essential part of the team’s defense under former linebackers coach in New England and current Dolphins head coach Brian Flores. In 13 games this season, Roberts made 61 tackles, 1.5 sacks, one fumble recovery and one forced fumble.
The 26-year-old signed a one-year, $2 million deal after four seasons with the Patriots organization.
Miami’s playoff hopes in jeopardy after Saturday?
Roberts might not be the only things the Dolphins lose on Saturday. Currently, the team is down 16-13 entering the final quarter of play. With a loss, things become interesting in the AFC playoff picture.
The Dolphins must win out to secure the No.7 seed for the AFC over the Baltimore Ravens. With a loss, it allows the Ravens to move up into the conversation for Week 17 while the Dolphins will be forced to play the red hot Buffalo Bills.
It also technically keeps the Raiders around but they need plenty to swing their way.
Tua Tagovailoa has done his job as a game manager. The problem is the Raiders defense should be easy to pick apart. Instead, he’s thrown for only 94 yards and a touchdown.
There’s plenty of time left for heroics, but the defense will need to step up big without a key piece to their overall success.