Terron Armstead is a Game Changer

In professional sports, there are players who make headlines and there are players whose job it is to stay out of the limelight—because when they’re performing at their best, almost no one notices. Terron Armstead, an offensive tackle starting his third year with the Miami Dolphins this season (his twelfth NFL career season), is one of those players.

“I’ve grown to love it,” Armstead says of the position he plays, noting that most other football players who grow up being coached by their dad (as Armstead was) are slotted into positions like running back, quarterback, or receiver. Armstead says he’s the exception to that unwritten rule, having played lineman on both sides of the ball since he was a tyke.

“It’s a challenging position. It’s mostly thankless,” he admits with a laugh. “[Offensive line players] don’t get our names called unless it’s for something negative,” he adds, referring to the pressure to avoid committing costly penalties like holding and false starts. “The objective and the goal of a good game for me is to not be called, to not be noticed. That means I’m doing pretty well out there on the offensive line.”

Standing 6 feet, 5 inches tall and weighing just over 300 pounds, Armstead is a physical powerhouse. While his imposing presence on the Dolphins offensive line may strike fear into the hearts of defenders, it’s his nimble footwork, quick reflexes, and work ethic that make Armstead a true force in both run blocking and pass protection—skills he’s worked hard to develop.

“I became intrigued by the details and techniques that different successful players use,” he says. “I studied them and I realized [that] you’ve got to be so skillful to play offensive line in the NFL. It’s really one of those positions that’s a treasure of the game.”

Armstead’s ability to read the game and adjust his strategy on the fly has earned him a reputation as one of the most versatile, talented, and intelligent players on any field. That’s probably why he’s been selected five times as an NFL Pro Bowler—a testament to his dedication and passion for the game. It’s a record Armstead calls “a blessing” and “a dream come true.”

But to play, you’ve got to be healthy. Last year, Armstead missed seven games after being sidelined by a litany of ailments involving his knee, ankle, back, and quadriceps. He says he considered retirement during the offseason, but decided he’s ready and able to take the field again for the Fins.

This year’s goal? “Every person’s goal is the Super Bowl,” Armstead admits. “That’s without question. That’s like breathing air.”

But to get to that goal will require teamwork, Armstead says. “We’re looking to lock in and have a better understanding of the system. We’re looking for more accountability to each other, and of course to perform in the big games where it really makes a difference.”

The post Terron Armstead is a Game Changer appeared first on Aventura Magazine. .