Austin Jackson playing through pain, will look at surgery after season

Miami Dolphins offensive tackle Austin Jackson suited up for the first time in a long time against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday. He hadn’t played since the Dolphins’ season opener against the Indianapolis Colts back on Sept. 7 thanks to a toe injury.

But just because Jackson was back on the field with his teammates doesn’t mean he’s feeling completely healthy. Following Miami’s contest against the Saints, Jackson admitted that he’s playing through pain and plans to deal with any potential surgery after the campaign.

Jackson was fortunate to make his long-awaited return to the field in a win for the Dolphins, as they beat the Saints by a score of 21-17 and are continuing their impressive turnaround following a disastrous start to the season. The first-round pick back in the 2020 NFL Draft not only played but got the start and made an impact.

Unfortunately, he is no stranger to dealing with the injury bug, as much of his NFL career to this point has been derailed by injuries. After all, he logged just two games played in the 2022 season and only eight in the 2024 campaign. By the time this campaign ends, three of his six NFL seasons will be marked by single digits in games played.

But the fact that he is playing through pain is a credit to his commitment to the team and should only serve as inspiration for the rest of the players on the roster as they try to steal a playoff berth for Miami. The Dolphins’ odds to qualify for the playoffs for a third time under head coach Mike McDaniel this season are long, but they’re still kicking in the race.

Jackson and the Dolphins improved to 5-7 in the 2025 campaign with their Saints win, and the upcoming game on their schedule is looking quite winnable as well. Miami will take on the lowly New York Jets, who have won just three games all season, at MetLife Stadium on Dec. 7. However, it is of note that New York is fresh off a win over the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday.