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Dolphins Suffer Big Defensive Blow as Zach Sieler Sidelined 'Week to Week' With Undisclosed Injury
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- Dolphins Suffer Big Defensive Blow as Zach Sieler Sidelined 'Week to Week' With Undisclosed Injury
After suffering an undisclosed injury, Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Zach Sieler will miss most of the remainder of training camp.
The veteran was held out of the Dolphins' joint practice with the Washington Commanders on Wednesday. Miami coach Jeff Hafley told reporters that it could be a while before Sieler is ready to return.
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"Zach will be out today," Hafley said. "Unfortunately, he won't be able to practice. I would say that would be week to week."
Hafley did not provide any details about Sieler's injury. He originally missed team drills Monday. Miami was off Tuesday as it traveled to Virginia to practice with the Commanders.
With Sieler sidelined for the immediate future, this will give more opportunities to Zeek Biggers, who was listed as his backup on the Dolphins' depth chart. Jordan Phillips and Kenneth Grant are also competing for starting roles at defensive tackle.
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Miami will miss not only Sieler's leadership on and off the field, but also his production.
In a year in which Hafley and general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan overhauled the Dolphins organization, they kept Sieler as part of their rebuild. Sieler is looking to rebound from a down 2025 season, when his production slipped to 5.5 sacks after he recorded 10 sacks in each of the previous two seasons.
Hafley is also installing his new defensive system, which is expected to use multiple defensive looks and formations. However, it will mostly feature a 4-3 base, with nickel personnel used in passing situations. Sieler's absence is significant because he could miss important parts of the defensive installation while Miami prepares for the regular season.
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Sieler is entering a critical season in Miami
The 2026 season is a crucial year for Sieler because he has no guaranteed money remaining on his contract after the season. Miami would save $8.38 million by releasing him next offseason.
With the preseason almost in full swing, the Dolphins will have plenty of time to get Sieler ready for their Week 1 matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders . While he will miss valuable training camp practices, Sieler has played enough football to catch up before the start of the regular season.
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Aug 12, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
