DAVIE, Fla. -- Miami Dolphins Pro Bowl left tackle Branden Albert suffered a torn ACL and MCL in his right knee and is expected to miss nine to 12 months, according to a source.

Editor's Picks Walker: Spotlight on Dolphins rookie James The loss of Branden Albert means the most important player on Miami's offensive line is rookie Ja'Wuan James, who moves from right to left tackle, James Walker writes.

Miami will place Albert, who was injured in Miami's 20-16 loss Sunday to the Detroit Lions, on season-ending injured reserve.

"That's unfortunate with any player who sustains an injury," Dolphins coach Joe Philbin said. "Branden has been a great addition to the football team and an excellent representative of the organization. Unfortunately, injuries are part of the game."

Albert signed a five-year contract with the Dolphins this past offseason worth a maximum of $47 million. He started nine games for Miami and played at a high level.

"Big, huge [loss]. I don't even know what to say about it," Dolphins receiver Mike Wallace said after Sunday's game. "That's a humongous loss. He's been a great player and a great guy to have on the team and in the locker room. But we will hold it down for him, though."

Rookie first-round pick Ja'Wuan James is expected to replace Albert and move from right tackle to left tackle. Miami (5-4) will host the Buffalo Bills (5-4) on Thursday night in what could be an elimination game in a crowded AFC playoff field.

The Dolphins promoted running back LaMichael James from the practice squad to the 53-man roster to replace the open roster spot vacated by Albert.