Miami Dolphins

What does Devante Parker's injury mean for Leonte Carroo?

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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It was a long time coming for rookie wide receiver Leonte Carroo but he finally scored his first professional touchdown this past Sunday against the San Francisco 49ers.

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The Carroo touchdown – a simple five-yard square out from the 15 yard line – proved to be the game-winning touchdown the Miami Dolphins ultimately needed late in the game.

Although the catch was the first touchdown of the season, more surprisingly it was only the third catch of the season for Carroo, the first since his two catch, 14 yard performance in week one against the Seattle Seahawks.

The casual fan may not be aware why Carroo even found himself on the field late in Sunday’s 31-24 victory.

DeVante Parker, 2nd-year receiver out of the University of Louisville, has been on a tear as of late. His newly found clean bill of health has sparked a production in not only his game but also quarterback Ryan Tannehill’s. On Sunday Parker got the offense rolling on a remarkable diving catch on third in long.

DeVante Parker is coming on strong as of late. Makes a great diving catch here. pic.twitter.com/KBsgfHp552

— Eric (@EricElizondo8) November 27, 2016

The 46 yard reception would only be one of three catches on the day, however, as Parker left the game early after taking a knee to the back from a 49ers defender. That gave Carroo a chance to make a play for head coach Adam Gase’s surging Dolphins squad.

Now the Wednesday before game day against the AFC North leading Baltimore Ravens, there are question marks surrounding Parker’s health. Parker, as we all know, has struggled with a number of injuries throughout his short tenure in the NFL.

The Dolphins have found multiple ways to win over the course of their six-game winning streak. From multiple 200+ rushing performances to a pick six and now what looks like a franchise quarterback in Tannehill, coach Gase is relying on new players every week to step up. Jay Ajayi has done it as has Kiko Alonso, Tony Lippett, Tannehill and now Carroo.

The health status on Parker will be something to watch as the week closes out. If Parker can’t go, it’ll be Carroo that steps in and plays more in three-wide receiver sets.

We’re now in week 13. If his number is indeed called upon, can Carroo handle the pressure with the playoffs looming?

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