Miami Dolphins starting defensive tackle Davon Godchaux has a biceps tear and is facing a three-month recovery, a source told ESPN.

The Dolphins are hopeful that he could return toward the end of the regular season or the playoffs if his rehab goes well.

Godchaux suffered the injury in Sunday's win over the San Francisco 49ers.

A second opinion Tuesday confirmed the nature of the injury.

The timing isn't good for Godchaux, who is in the final year of his rookie contract and possibly headed into free agency this offseason.

Godchaux has been one of the Dolphins' key cogs in defending the run throughout his 52 games (42 starts) in Miami.

Rookie second-round pick Raekwon Davis and third-year man Zach Sieler will likely receive a larger role with Godchaux out.