MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. -- Miami Dolphins rookie receiver Jarvis Landry was perhaps the biggest bright spot in a deflating 27-24 loss to the Green Bay Packers.
Landry started for the first time and led Miami (2-3) with six receptions for 75 yards and his first career touchdown. The rookie also had a 54-yard kickoff return to set up Miami’s first field goal in the opening period. Landry even recorded a tackle on special teams for good measure.
Still, Landry wasn't happy with the results.
“It wasn’t enough,” Landry said afterward in the locker room. “It means nothing with a loss, as far as my performance goes.”
Landry was all over the field Sunday against Green Bay (4-2). The Dolphins drafted the receiver in the second round this past May.
Many questioned his speed and the fact that he doesn’t have elite athleticism. But Miami’s coaching staff has been impressed with Landry’s toughness and dependability.
The rookie also has a good feel for the big moment. When Green Bay quickly drove down the field for the game-opening touchdown drive, Landry answered with his 54-yard return to help get the Dolphins on the board. Returning kicks was a major question mark for Landry. He's had his ups and downs this season but was solid on Sunday.
“It’s just going to take constant work, making plays when they come and eventually we are going to get past that kicker,” Landry said of his returns.
Landry replaced injured veteran Brandon Gibson, who sat out with a hamstring injury. The rookie made a case to permanently replace the veteran with a standout performance in his first opportunity. Landry continues to gain the trust of Miami starting quarterback Ryan Tannehill and adds more quality depth to the Dolphins' receiving corps.
