Jason Sanders, Miami’s reliable kicker since 2018, has been sidelined all season with a hip injury sustained during preseason warmups. Replacement Riley Patterson has stepped up impressively, but Sanders’ return timeline remains uncertain.
Why Jason Sanders Is Sidelined
Sanders suffered a hip injury during pregame warmups before the Dolphins’ final preseason contest in August. The injury forced Miami to place him on Injured Reserve just days before Week 1, mandating at least a four-game absence. Head coach Mike McDaniel initially expressed optimism, stating: “I don’t see a season-ender, basically, to our knowledge, surgery isn’t necessary but time is.”
However, Sanders has yet to practice as of late November. Special teams coordinator Craig Aukerman admitted uncertainty about the veteran’s status.
“I’m not sure, I just don’t know if there is a timeline for it, again that’s going to be with the trainers and things like that. Those guys will talk about it, and again it’s whatever is best for Jason (Sanders), that’s what we want.”
How Riley Patterson Has Filled In
Miami quickly signed 26-year-old Riley Patterson to its practice squad before elevating him for regular-season action. Patterson brings five years of NFL experience, having played for the Detroit Lions, Jacksonville Jaguars, Cleveland Browns, New York Jets, and Atlanta Falcons.
Patterson’s performance has exceeded expectations. Through 11 games with Miami, he’s converted 17 of 19 field goals (89.5%) and made 23 of 24 extra points (95.8%). The highlight came in Week 11’s dramatic overseas matchup against Washington in Madrid.
Patterson nailed a 29-yard game-winning field goal in overtime, helping Miami secure a 16-13 victory. “It was awesome. It was super special… to kind of end it the way we did, and then also to get a win,” Patterson said afterward.
Will Sanders Return This Season?
As the season enters its final stretch, Sanders’ future remains murky. The Dolphins designated him for return from IR, keeping the door open. But with Patterson’s reliable performance and Miami facing potential roster decisions during a disappointing season, the calculus has shifted.
Aukerman’s hesitant comments suggest the team may lean toward caution with their longest-tenured player. For now, Patterson remains Miami’s starting kicker with Sanders working behind the scenes toward a potential comeback that may not materialize in 2025.
The Miami Dolphins (4-7) host the struggling New Orleans Saints (2-9) at Hard Rock Stadium today in Week 13 action. Despite their 25th-ranked offense and struggling performance, the Dolphins are riding a two-game winning streak as heavy favorites against the NFC South cellar dwellers.