Miami Dolphins center Mike Pouncey will play only five games this season, due to hip injuries.
The Dolphins will place Pouncey on injured reserve, ending his season, a source confirmed Tuesday.
Pouncey was dominant in the five games he played, helping Jay Ajayi to two 200-yard rushing games.
But even with a playoff spot within reasonable striking distance, the Dolphins are taking a long-view on Pouncey’s health, which has been an issue.
Pouncey has started 77 NFL games, missing 1 in 2015, 4 in 2014, and 2 in 2013.
Pouncey is a dominant run blocker and arguably the best and most important offensive lineman on a team featuring four first-round offensive lineman.