Miami Dolphins list Dimitri Patterson doubtful

Miami Dolphins cornerback Dimitri Patterson (24) returns an interception as he his hit by Cleveland Browns running back Trent Richardson (33) during the second quarter at FirstEnergy Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Schwane-USA TODAY Sports

The Miami Dolphins are a lot better off when Dimitri Patterson is healthy, because he has proven time and time again that he can make big plays in the Dolphins secondary. The Dolphins tabbed Patterson as their best option as a No. 2 cornerback in training camp, as he had to beat out Richard Marshall (later released) and talented-but-struggling Boise State rookie Jamar Taylor. Patterson certainly wasn’t the favorite of three going into the position battle, but he emerged as the clear victor and has performed well this season when healthy.

Unfortunately, health has been an all-too-real impediment for Patterson, as he has played in just four games this season. He missed a large chunk of the early part of the regular season with a groin injury, and he seemed to aggravate the groin injury in last week’s game against the Cincinnati Bengals. His injury wasn’t noticeable during the game, but we learned about the issue when he missed the first two practice sessions of the week.

Although Patterson was able to get in a limited practice on Thursday, his status for this week’s game is on the downswing. In fact, the Miami Herald’s Adam H. Beasley reports that the Dolphins have listed Dimitri Patterson has doubtful for this week’s Monday Night Football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Since it’s the Bucs, the Dolphins should feel too much pain, even if Mike Glennon is steadily improving with each start. Doubtful players almost never play, so fully expect Patterson to miss another game this year.

You can follow Joe Soriano on Twitter for more NFL updates and analysis @SorianoJoe. Be sure to like us on Facebook here and follow our site on Twitter as well.