The Miami Dolphins' unexpected decision to trade Jaylen Waddle has stirred up discussions about De'Von Achane's future, raising questions about whether the Green Bay Packers might make a move for him. The fanbase is split on whether it's a pursuit worth undertaking.
With Jon-Eric Sullivan, a former Green Bay executive, now at the helm in Miami, any talk of trading Achane has been firmly dismissed. Yet, one can't help but wonder if Packers GM Brian Gutekunst could sway his former colleague.
A Trade Idea That Could Benefit Both Packers and Dolphins
Let's dive into a trade scenario that might not please everyone, but deserves consideration.
Parting with Jayden Reed and a future draft pick isn't easy, but the Dolphins won't let Achane go cheaply. Negotiations would be with Sullivan, not Jerry Jones, making it a challenging but potentially rewarding endeavor.
Why This Trade Could Be a Game-Changer for the Packers
Acquiring Achane could revolutionize the Packers' offense. Head Coach Matt LaFleur is in need of an explosive back, something they've lacked since Aaron Jones' exit. While MarShawn Lloyd was drafted to fill that void, his availability is uncertain, making Achane an ideal addition.
Imagine the Packers boasting the most formidable running back duo in the league. Josh Jacobs brings the power, consistently breaking tackles, with 77% of his rushing yards last season coming after contact, per Pro Football Focus. Despite a struggling offensive line, Jacobs excelled.
Achane, on the other hand, is a speedster, one of the fastest backs in the NFL. Over three seasons with the Dolphins, he amassed 3,057 yards and 22 touchdowns, averaging 5.6 yards per carry. Nearly half of his touchdowns were explosive plays of 25 yards or more, with four surpassing 50 yards.
Last season, Achane led the NFL with 26 carries of 15 yards or more and posted a league-best breakaway percentage of 46.1. His 622 rushing yards on such attempts topped the NFL charts.
Beyond rushing, Achane is a receiving threat, having caught 172 passes for 1,277 yards and 13 touchdowns over three seasons. LaFleur would relish adding such a dynamic player.
With Chris Brooks currently the RB2 after Emanuel Wilson's free agency departure and MarShawn Lloyd's injury struggles, Achane's arrival would be timely. Fresh off a Pro Bowl season, Achane could lead the backfield alongside Jacobs, forming a thunder-and-lightning duo to challenge defenses.
While losing Reed would sting, the Packers have strong receiver depth and could bolster it further in the draft. As for draft compensation, Green Bay holds two 2027 fourth-round picks and could gain more compensatory selections, making one fourth-rounder a reasonable price.
Why This Trade Could Benefit the Dolphins
Though Miami might hesitate to part with Achane, this trade package offers enticing benefits.
Following Waddle's trade and Tyreek Hill's release, the Dolphins are in dire need of receiver help. Reed would provide Malik Willis with a familiar target to build around.
Reed could become a cornerstone of Miami's passing attack for years. With solid running back depth, including second-year Ollie Gordon II, and the potential to draft more talent, the Dolphins can afford to trade Achane.
In full rebuild mode, Miami would gain valuable draft assets. Sullivan has already amassed a significant number of picks, with seven in the first three rounds and 11 overall.
This trade would add another 2027 fourth-rounder, bolstering Miami's draft capital. With projections indicating a deeper draft class next year, the Dolphins could increase their 2027 selections to nine by acquiring a fourth-round pick from Green Bay.
Ultimately, Miami enhances its future draft stock, accelerating the rebuild while securing a key piece for Willis' development in the passing game.