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Chase Edmonds 2022 Outlook: Dolphins Paid Him Like The Starter, But Will He Produce Like One?
3 years agoThe new Miami Dolphins regime got their guy in free agency, former Arizona Cardinals running back Chase Edmonds. They paid him $12.6 million over two years despite having two decent, extremely affordable options in Myles Gaskin and Salvon Ahmed already on the roster. That right there speaks volumes to Edmonds' potential role this season, especially since his dead cap is $6.1 million this season before the Dolphins have a possible out prior to the 2023 season. He will be used quite often despite the Dolphins also bringing in veterans Raheem Mostert and Sony Michel. Michel might have the inside track on early-down work this season since Mostert seemingly can't stay healthy, having missed 25 games the past two seasons. Even though Edmonds was never a feature back with the Cardinals, he still averaged nearly 12 opportunities per game (7.6 rush attempts + 4.3 targets) the past two seasons. Being that targets are worth much more than rush attempts, especially in PPR formats, Edmonds' value comes from his ability as a pass-catcher. And he was awesome on third downs last season, averaging an impressive 12.9 yards per rush attempt. He's also incredibly explosive and an underrated pass-protector, having not allowed a sack in three years, while 15.5% of his runs went for 10+ yards in 2021. As a result, it's highly likely he gets the nod on third downs this season, which is a great role if you pair it with either first or second downs as well. Ultimately, it wouldn't be shocking to see Edmonds take on a 60% snap share this season. In 2021, Edmonds saw a 60% snap share in seven games while sharing backfield responsibilities with James Conner. In those seven games, he averaged 12.8 PPR points per game. That would have been good for RB23 on a per-game basis. Now in Miami with offensive mastermind Mike McDaniel at the helm and one of the best wide receiver duos in the game in Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, Edmonds should find a lot of open holes to run through. Consider him a top-30 option with top-20 upside in 2022.
