The Dolphins are looking to rebuild their offense after losing De’Von Achane for the rest of the season. The running back suffered a torn ACL in his left knee during a 24-10 loss to Kansas City and Miami placed him on injured reserve. The loss comes with the team at 0-3 and forces new coach Jeff Hafley to reorganize a central piece of his offense.
The first name to take responsibility is Ollie Gordon II. The second-year running back went from having a supporting role to becoming the main alternative after Achane’s injury. Against the Chiefs he finished with 17 carries for 41 yards and a touchdown, in addition to three receptions for 14 yards. His profile is different from that of Achane: he offers greater physicality to work between the tackles and in short yardage.
Gordon, a sixth-round pick in the 2025 draft, had had limited participation before Game 3. Miami does not need to find an identical replacement for Achane, but it does need to distribute the functions left vacant by one of its main offensive players.
That’s where Jaylen Wright appears. The running back was ahead of Gordon entering the season, but was unable to play against Kansas City due to physical issues. Wright provides speed and can take over part of the plays aimed at attacking open spaces.
The roster also features Jarquez Hunter and Carlos Washington Jr., from the practice squad. Hafley left open the possibility of bringing in outside help.
In that scenario, Miami could look for a veteran running back to add experience and depth. Among the names mentioned are Kareem Hunt, Raheem Mostert and Cam Akers, although there is no confirmation that the Dolphins have agreed to any.
The decision will have to be made quickly. Miami is 0-3 and will visit Minnesota next Sunday. The loss of Achane, who in 2025 produced 1,838 yards from scrimmage and was selected to the Pro Bowl, changes the attack. Now the Dolphins will have to find a combination that allows them to maintain rushing production without putting all the weight on a player with little experience.
For now, Gordon starts as the immediate answer, Wright represents the alternative if it is available and the market offers a third way. Miami already faces the need to redesign its backfield. The challenge will be to distribute the load and preserve the ground threat while the coaching staff evaluates what combination can sustain the attack in the coming weeks of the year.
