Dolphins LT Terron Armstead takes big step in recovery process – and fulfilling career goal

After entering training camp on the active/physically unable to perform list, Dolphins tackle Terron Armstead was in uniform and pads during the Dolphins second week of training practice on Tuesday. It was the first time fans had seen him fully dressed since the team’s wild card playoff game on Jan 15.

On Monday, Armstead was dressed in uniform but did not participate in the first practice session that allowed pads, and he did not appear to be wearing any pads.

Though he did not participate in team drills on Tuesday, seeing him in his full uniform puts him well on track to be available for the start of the regular season, which opens against the Los Angeles Chargers on Sept. 10.

When asked after practice how much training he anticipates putting in over the coming weeks, Armstead said that he is adhering to the plan that the team has set out for him and his recovery.

“They’ve got a plan for me, [a] program for me,” Armstead said. “I’m just trying to stick with it. We’re progressing, kind of going through a little bit of a slow progression in my opinion, but I’m not arguing or combating. I’m here to play, so I’d love to get out there and compete. I’m also in Year 11 and I’ve been through 10 training camps before, so it’s a little bit of a balance.”

Armstead also said that he is sure that he would be able to “grasp quickly” once he’s back on the field, but what’s most important is sticking to the return plan that was laid forth.

Armstead did not train during spring practices after missing four games in the 2022 season, playing through injuries to his toe, knee, pec and hip.

He had an offseason procedure, “clean up” work done on his knee, according to head coach Mike McDaniel. He was placed on the PUP list for the first week of training camp before officially being activated on Monday afternoon.

“It was fun being back out there with the guys and cross the lines,” Armstead said. “To be right there, talk with them, do some drills, some hand work stuff, get ready to get going.”

As he enters his second season with the Dolphins and 11th season in his career, Armstead brings with him a leadership mentality to the team and has been instrumental in fostering the growth of other players.

“That leadership. That vet leadership,” defensive end Emmanuel Ogbah said when asked what Armstead brings to the team. “He does a lot for us. When healthy, he’s the best he can be. We definitely need him this year. I know he’s doing the best he can to get back. I can’t wait until he’s out there with the group to teach the younger guys.”

Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, referred to Armstead as “a coach.”

“He’s in the offensive line room,” Tagovailoa said. “He’s coaching them after practice. He’s grabbing a lot of guys. He’s helping them with their technique. He’s in the back there coaching them, although he’s not in. He does a lot. He expects a lot out of those guys up front regardless of who’s in and he’s just a great teammate.”

Although there isn’t a fixed timetable for when the four-time Pro Bowler will be a full participant in practice, Armstead said his primary objective is to be present and active in all 17 of the upcoming season’s games — a feat he has yet to achieve in his career.

“I’m going to keep going for it, doing everything I can to make it a reality,” Armstead said. “I’m here to play. I’m here to play, so that’s goal No. 1. All I’m focusing on right now is today and then the next one and then the next one. I’m not going to look too far ahead.”

This story was originally published August 1, 2023 at 6:23 PM.