Branden Albert injury forces Dolphins left tackle out of game against Lions

Miami Dolphins left tackle Branden Albert was carted off the field in the first half of the team's Week 10 contest with the Detroit Lions. Albert's right knee was rolled up during a first down play from the Dolphins' offense, and he immediately fell to the turf.

The Dolphins have listed Albert as "doubtful" to return, but there really does not appear to be a way the Pro Bowl tackle will return.

Rookie right tackle Ja'Wuan James slid across the line of scrimmage to replace Albert at left tackle, with Dallas Thomas replacing James at right tackle. Thomas, who started at left guard for Miami, was replaced by Nate Garner.

The loss of Albert is a big one for Miami. He was signed this offseason as the lockdown tackle, tasked to protect Ryan Tannehill's blindside after the Dolphins allowed 58 sacks in 2013. He was performing to the level of a Pro Bowler, a selection he earned in 2013 as a member of the Kansas City Chiefs. Miami's offensive line will look to better protect without their big man in the second half. The Detroit defensive line has had success getting after Tannehill early in the game, recording two sacks already.