The 2014 season is over for Miami Dolphins left tackle Branden Albert.

Head coach Joe Philbin said Monday that Albert would be placed on injured reserve, necessitating a shift in personnel up front.

Albert signed a five-year, $47.5 million contract to join the Dolphins in the first week of free agency in March. The former first-round pick spent the previous five seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs.

Albert was injured in the second quarter of Sunday’s 20-16 loss to the Detroit Lions and will underwent an MRI exam to confirm a season-ending knee injury.

“It’s tough losing Branden,” quarterback Ryan Tannehill said. “I love the guy to death. He’s out there battling every day. He’s such a consistent guy, a solid guy in the offensive front. Losing him is tough.”

The Dolphins are supporting Albert but must move quickly to prepare for AFC East opponent Buffalo on Thursday night.

“This is just a tough time right now before the surgery. But as soon as he starts rehab, he’ll be alright,” Pouncey said. “You hate to see that happen with these kind of players in this league. He has a long road ahead of him but he’ll get back heatlhy because he’s a figher.”

The Bills, who also lost Sunday and have the same 5-4 record, bring their disruptive defensive line to South Beach.

Right tackle Ja’Wuan James moved to the left side in Sunday’s loss and will get the start there Thursday. Offensive guard Dallas Thomas will start at right tackle.