The fantasy season is just around the corner, which means it is time to start breaking down the different situations that can provide fantasy value for the upcoming season. One ambiguous situation that can provide big value is the Miami Dolphins backfield.
The Dolphins brought back Raheem Mostert and Jeff Wilson Jr. after both had solid performances for the team during the 2022 season. They also used a third-round pick in the 2023 NFL draft on Texas A&M running back De’Von Achane.
Like most of Miami’s weapons, Achane has game-breaking speed thanks to his successful collegiate career as both the team’s running back and an All-SEC sprinter on the track team. Now he finds himself in a crowded backfield on a team that prioritizes speed and explosiveness on all levels of the offense.
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Will De’Von Achane Have a Prominent Role in the Dolphins Offense?
De’Von Achane was one of the most explosive and efficient running backs during his three seasons with Texas A&M. Achane had 369 rushing attempts in his career, averaging 6.4 yards per carry in the SEC. He was also an excellent receiver out of the backfield, catching 65 passes for 554 yards and five touchdowns. The rookie had an ideal landing spot in the NFL draft, landing in Mike McDaniel’s wide zone rushing scheme that has created fantasy production between the 49ers and Miami Dolphins.
While the Miami backfield is crowded, Achane will have ample opportunities to carve out a role during his rookie season. Both Raheem Mostert and Jeff Wilson Jr. had success during their time with the Dolphins in 2022, but neither player has been a vision of health during their careers. Since 2017, Mostert has just three seasons with 11 games played. Wilson Jr. has just three seasons with at least 10 games played since 2018. Injuries may not be the only thing that gets Achane on the field after a successful beginning to OTAs for Achane this summer.
Achane has the type of rare speed to get on the field and is the best pass-catching running back in Miami’s backfield. In 2022, Achane had more receptions for Texas A&M (36) than Mostert (31) or Wilson Jr. (22) have ever had in a season. Miami could choose to feature Achane in the passing attack to get him into space with his home run speed. His efficiency as a runner in college could also cause him to gradually gain a role in the backfield. There are several paths to fantasy relevance for the rookie running back in his first season.
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