Brandon Gibson likely out for the season

Miami Dolphins wide receiver Brandon Gibson (10) catches a pass for a touchdown past Buffalo Bills middle linebacker Kiko Alonso (50) in the second quarter of a game at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-USA TODAY Sports

Miami Dolphins wide receiver Brandon Gibson was one of the most underrated free agent signings of this offseason, and the Dolphins did a great job of identifying him in free agency and bringing him to South Beach. He’s made more of an impact than high-priced free agent WR Mike Wallace has, and he had a touchdown reception in today’s game against the New England Patriots (as I am writing this out, the Dolphins are up on the Patriots 14-0).

But Gibson suffered a severe-looking left knee injury in the first quarter, and he was taken to the locker room for further examination. The Dolphins needed to get him on a cart, and they immediately ruled him as doubtful to return. Now, the NFL Network’s Albert Breer reports that the “initial diagnosis” on the left knee injury is that it is “likely” of the season-ending variety.

It’s brutal news for the Miami Dolphins, because Gibson had caught 29 passes for 322 yards and two touchdowns coming into the game. He has been a key part of an excellent Dolphins aerial attack, and losing him for the remainder of the season would be a critical loss for the Dolphins. While they have an excellent trio of wide receivers in Wallace, Gibson, and Brian Hartline, the Dolphins clearly lack depth at the position. Again, it’s a big blow, and it leaves Rishard Matthews as the No. 3 receiver. Matthews is an interesting player, but losing Gibson is still a big blow; hopefully he can avoid missing the entire year.

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