Terron Armstead's Dolphins goal for 2023 is the most important

MIAMI GARDENS — Terron Armstead understands how important he is to the Dolphins and quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, and so, yes, he wants to play every single game in 2023.

"That's goal number one," Armstead said Tuesday, after his first practice of the summer.

Armstead is a Pro Bowler and the anchor of Miami's offensive line.

Armstead played through multiple injuries in his first Dolphins' season. But he did miss four regular-season games and the team was 1-3 in the games he missed.

"I'm going to do everything I can to make it a reality," Armstead said of the 17-game plan. "I'm here to play."

Terron Armstead played through toe, pectoral injuries

Armstead avoided toe surgery that had been recommended to him early last season. But he began training camp on the physically unable to perform list.

"They've got a plan for me," Armstead, 32, said. "Kind of going through a little bit of a slow progression, in my opinion, but I'm not arguing or combatting."

Armstead has shown he can perform at an elite level with little to no practice required. Perhaps he'll take some reps in joint practices against the Falcons and Texans, but preseason games are unlikely.

Terron Armstead's offensive line dinners and off-day drills boosting Miami Dolphins

Armstead said his toe is fine as is a knee, following offseason "clean-up" surgery.

Dolphins players and coaches do not downplay Armstead's importance.

“When healthy he’s the best you can be," edge rusher Emmanuel Ogbah said.

Terron Armstead's health is essential to success

Added Tagovailoa: "He's a coach. He's in the offensive line room. He helps guys with technique. He does a lot. He expects a lot."

Armstead knows the Dolphins need him.

"It's not a secret," Armstead said. "You know, you need your best players to play and play their best You know, I mean especially when you get down into the stretch into the playoffs."

Armstead has been training on the sideline with boxing gloves this summer.

Asked how he would fare against jiu-jitsu-trained Tua, the affable Armstead quipped: "I'll whip Tua."

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Joe Schad is a journalist at The Palm Beach Post. You can reach him at.jschad@pbpost.com and follow him on Instaram and Twitter @schadjoe. Sign up for Joe's free weekly Dolphins Pulse Newsletter. Help support our work by subscribing

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: How healthy is Miami Dolphins left tackle Terron Armstead?