DAVIE, Fla. -- The second season for Miami Dolphins receiver DeVante Parker began with plenty of promise. In Week 2, which was Parker’s 2016 debut, he flashed the ability that made him a 2015 first-round pick.

Parker carved up the New England Patriots' secondary for eight catches and 106 yards in a 31-24 Miami defeat. But instead of that game being a springboard, Parker’s production gradually decreased.

DeVante Parker takes the field on Oct. 23 against the Bills. Parker's production has slowed in recent weeks after a promising start. Chris Trotman/Getty Images

Parker’s role has shrunk in Miami’s offense since the second week of the season. He has four games this year with three receptions or fewer. In the past two games against the Buffalo Bills and Pittsburgh Steelers -- both victories for Miami -- Parker recorded just 48 combined receiving yards. That is not good enough for a receiver with Parker's ability.

“I really do think his number hasn’t come up quite as much, but he’s made a couple big plays and I’m encouraged by him,” Dolphins offensive coordinator Clyde Christensen said. “I think he has a chance to be a great player and very talented. I do think it’s one of those where you don’t feel good for a couple days early in the week and that’s no fun.”

Christensen said Parker is still not 100 percent from a hamstring injury he suffered in the summer. It’s a tricky injury that needs to be managed.

An area of growth for Parker is learning how to play through nagging injuries. He's had foot and muscle issues since joining Miami and each instance has greatly hampered his progress.

“For the next eight weeks, the whole NFL feels [banged up],” Christensen said. “No one wakes up feeling very good or physically fresh or any of those things. I think he’ll grind through it and he’ll have some big games. We’re encouraged with him, we think he’s improving, we know what kind of talent he has and he’s been excellent."

With the emergence of tailback Jay Ajayi and Miami's running game, Parker could be an X-factor in the passing game to bring balance to the Dolphins' offense in the second half of the season.