Dolphins guard Dallas Thomas may start at LT vs. Falcons

Aug 17, 2013; Houston, TX, USA; Miami Dolphins guard Dallas Thomas (70) faces the Houston Texans attack during the game at Reliant Stadium. The Texans defeated the Dolphins 24-17. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

The Miami Dolphins are likely to be without starting left tackle Branden Albert in their next preseason game, leaving a hole on the left side of the line.

Without Albert and backup tackle Jason Fox healthy, the Dolphins will be forced to move a guard to the outside.

According to Chris Perkins of the Sun Sentinel, that player is likely to be starting left guard Dallas Thomas.

At left guard, Thomas has had his struggles of late. Given Miami's lack of talent and depth at guard, though, Thomas isn't in much danger of losing his job.

If Thomas does get the call at left tackle on Saturday, rookie Jamil Douglas is expected to start at left guard. Douglas has played well thus far and has put pressure on both Thomas and Billy Turner, but he's likely to start the year as a backup -- barring any future injuries.

(h/t Sun Sentinel)