"Jake Long did what he could. He tried to play an active role during Dolphins' team meetings, tried to offer encouragement to his teammates while they practiced without him.

But he missed it — not being out there, playing.

"Not being a part of it was difficult because I'm that type of leader that goes out there every single day and hates missing practices and games," said Long, who sat every one of the Dolphins' four preseason games and also sat out about half of the practices while rehabbing a knee injury.

Long's wait will end Monday when he assumes his duties as the Dolphins' starting left tackle. His absence during the preseason didn't help the cohesion of an offensive line that features a new starting center (rookie Mike Pouncey) and right tackle (Marc Colombo).

Still, Long spoke with confidence on Wednesday that he'd be able to play at the All-Pro level to which he — and the Dolphins — have become accustomed."