The potential loss of MLB Channing Crowder would be a serious setback for the Miami Dolphins and their chances of getting into the AFC playoffs.

Crowder left the 27-20 loss to the Texans on the team’s first series on defense with a right foot injury and didn’t return. The morning after, Dolphins coach Tony Sparano didn’t offer an update on Crowder’s status.

“Nope, don’t have news yet,” Sparano said.

The South Florida Sun-Sentinel, however, reported Crowder underwent an MRI exam on Monday, and the injury will likely end his season.

Without Crowder, the Dolphins would rely on Akin Ayodele and Reggie Torbor at the inside linebacker spots. Both saw extensive action against the Texans.

“They did well. Both of them had some plays, I’m sure, that they wish they could have back,” Sparano said. “But from a communication standpoint I think they did pretty well. Missed a few tackles.”

Of course, it will be difficult for the Dolphins to extend their season beyond Week 17. At 7-8, the Dolphins sit behind five 8-7 teams vieing for two wild-card spots. In their clinching scenario, the Dolphins would need to win the finale against the Steelers, and then hope the Jets, Ravens, Texans and Jaguars all lose.

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