The Miami Dolphins suffered another devastating injury setback following Sunday's 19-9 Week 9 loss to the Detroit Lions, as defensive tackle Zach Sieler reportedly played the entire game despite suffering a season-ending ruptured biceps on the opening play.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reported Tuesday that Sieler will undergo surgery and faces an extended recovery period after playing through the injury against Detroit.
“Dolphins standout DT Zach Sieler ruptured his biceps and will undergo season-ending surgery, with a 5-6 month recovery expected, per sources. The injury happened on first play Sunday and he played the whole game with it,” Schefter wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.
The development represents a significant blow to Miami's defensive line, which will now have to finish the remainder of the 2026 season without one of its most important contributors.
Dolphins standout DT Zach Sieler ruptured his biceps and will undergo season-ending surgery, with a 5-6 month recovery expected, per sources. The injury happened on first play Sunday and he played the whole game with it. pic.twitter.com/N1ys0kzlkD
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 10, 2026
Sieler has established himself as a key presence along the Dolphins' defensive front, providing veteran leadership and consistent production against opposing offenses. His absence creates another challenge for a Miami team already dealing with several setbacks this season.
Dolphins face a major injury setback ahead of Week 10 vs. Colts
Despite their 1-7 record, the Dolphins have shown signs of improvement in recent weeks under first-year head coach Jeff Hafley.
Miami's defense delivered an encouraging performance against Detroit, holding one of the NFL's most productive offenses to just 19 points. However, the Dolphins struggled offensively and failed to capitalize on their defensive effort.
The loss of Sieler further complicates Miami's efforts to build momentum during the second half of the season.
The Dolphins will look to bounce back in Week 10 against the Indianapolis Colts (2-7), who have lost five consecutive games.
Indianapolis is also facing uncertainty ahead of Tuesday's 4 p.m. ET trade deadline, with running back Jonathan Taylor and wide receiver Josh Downs emerging in trade rumors.
Miami will now have to adjust its defensive rotation without Sieler as it attempts to secure its second victory of the season.