NFL
By: Rick
The Miami Dolphins had one of the most explosive rushing attacks in the NFL last season. The team finished sixth in the NFL in total rush yards and returned their main contributors to that category. So, what does the preseason look like for the Dolphins’ running backs?
Raheem Mostert
Mostert had one of his best seasons last year with the Dolphins, something not common with running backs after 30. Yet, Raheem hit the 1,000-yard mark and led the NFL with 18 rushing TDs. Where Mostert was a non-factor was in the passing game. With just 32 receptions, 175 yards, and 3 TDs his productivity wasn’t there, but it doesn’t have to be. Miami features an offense that is just as explosive in the air as on the ground.
The obvious problem there is, if you see Mostert on the field, you either know it’s going to be a run or can cheat away from defending if he’s not seeing the ball as much.
De’Von Achane
Achane was a rookie sensation last year and would lead the NFL in yards per carry despite his average dipping post-injury. He’ll more than likely see a heavier workload in 2024 and might be another running back who needs to get involved in the passing game. His targets were fewer than Mostert’s despite splitting carries and playing time. The Miami Dolphins offense needs to utilize their running backs underneath. With the speed that they have it could force defenses to make split decisions leaving guys such as Hill/Waddle/OBJ open downfield. Miami is too fast to not have these guys open up each spot on the field.
Jaylen Wright
Another year, another Jaylen picked up in the offseason. Miami falls in love with speedy players and Wright is just that. Looking to be a main contributor for the Dolphins despite his position on the depth chart. The offense revolves around mismatches and Wright can create a few more out of the backfield. If he can have a similar effect as Achane’s rookie season then depth at the position is secure should the injury bug come crawling in late in the season.
Jeff Wilson Jr.
Jeff Wilson Jr ended up a Miami Dolphin via trade in 2022 as the team was in desperate need of depth. He became an instant spark here and there for Miami until the following season. When the Miami Dolphins drafted Achane it was with a look to the future acquiring a young back who they can mold over the years. When Achane blew up, Wilson’s stock went down. Unless he can have a huge preseason, he might be auditioning for a new team come week 1.
Salvon Ahmed
Ahmed might be the toughest cut of the Miami Dolphins offseason should they choose to go that route. He’s been steady relief coming in and grinding out yards. When guys ahead of him got injured he’s the guy who would come in and fight for every yard with every opportunity he had. The occasional big moments and fighting for extra yards is the exact type of player every team looks for. Unfortunately for him, the Dolphins are absolutely loaded at the position and might have to make tough calls along the way. Hopefully he sticks around but depending on how other positions shake out, his tenure might be done.
Chris Brooks
Brooks might be the one player to leapfrog his teammates in 2024. There’s little chance he makes it to the top of the depth chart, but his running style is enough to compliment the speedier backs at the top. He runs hard and might be the change of pace the Dolphins need closer to the endzone. A guy who can lower his should and power through might just be what they need. With that being said, there’s probably one more spot after Mostert, Achane and Wright unless they move on from FB Alec Ingold, which is unlikely.
Alec Ingold
Ingold is lumped in with the HBs on this one as he won’t be a rushing leader but fills his role well with Miami. He’ll clear the way for anyone rushing behind him, he’s backup protection for Tua in the passing game, and he makes occasional plays. The fact that the Dolphins don’t have another FB on the roster pretty much solidifies his spot unless he has a major decline in skills in one offseason.
With all that talent at running back, look for the Dolphins to be near the top of the league in rushing again in 2024 but can they keep pace with their 2023 productivity?
