DAVIE, Fla. -- Daryl Gardener of the Miami Dolphins had back surgery Saturday and his agent said the defensive tackle probably will miss the rest of the season.

The 6-foot-6, 315-pounder underwent laser surgery to remove disc fragments and scar tissue. He checked into Holy Cross Medical Center in Fort Lauderdale on Thursday after complaining of back spasms.

Gardener's status for the rest of the season has not been discussed by the team. However, agent Neil Schwartz said Friday that Gardener most likely is out for the season.

Coach Dave Wannstedt said he had not expected Gardener to play in Sunday's game at Buffalo. Gardener was inactive for the Dolphins' 24-0 loss to the New York Jets last week.

The sixth-year defensive tackle started the first eight games of the season before experiencing his most recent back problems on Nov. 13. He has 36 tackles and four sacks this season.

Reserve defensive tackle Jermaine Haley is expected to get the start against the Bills on Sunday in Gardener's absence. Haley and Ernest Grant are both listed as questionable for the game Sunday at Buffalo, but Wannstedt expects them to play.

Defensive ends Lorenzo Bromell and Kenny Mixon, who replaced Gardener last week, also could see time at the tackle position.

Safety Brian Walker (broken right thumb) and cornerback Sam Madison (separated right shoulder) will miss the game Sunday. Both went through non-contact practice Friday and the Dolphins are hopeful that they will be in pads by Wednesday.