Miami Dolphins' star running back De’Von Achane is on the verge of securing a lucrative deal, and it's no surprise given his stellar performance on the field. Selected in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft, Achane has rapidly ascended to become one of the league’s elite running backs, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities both as a rusher and a receiver.
In his three seasons with the Dolphins, Achane has been a cornerstone of the offense, starting 36 games and amassing 3,057 rushing yards with 22 touchdowns on 544 carries. His prowess extends to the passing game, where he's snagged 172 receptions for 1,277 yards and 13 touchdowns. With numbers like these, the 24-year-old is poised for a significant payday, especially as he continues to peak in his career.
However, Miami's new General Manager, Jon-Eric Sullivan, faces a challenging offseason. Achane isn't the only running back set to cash in, as ESPN’s Adam Schefter highlighted that the market for top-tier running backs is heating up. According to Schefter, Achane, along with Bijan Robinson and Jahmyr Gibbs, is expected to land a substantial contract soon.
Last season, Achane delivered a career-best performance with 238 carries for 1,350 yards and 8 touchdowns, leading the NFL with an impressive 5.7 yards per carry. He also contributed significantly in the passing game with 67 receptions for 488 yards and 4 touchdowns. These stats underscore why he’s considered a prime candidate for a hefty contract.
The real question isn't if Achane will get paid, but who will foot the bill. The Dolphins have reportedly deemed him unavailable for trade, yet in the NFL, very few players are truly untouchable. Achane’s future with Miami remains uncertain, especially given the team’s current financial constraints.
Projections suggest Achane could command a contract in the range of $12-13 million annually, potentially totaling around $37 million over three years. While his talent certainly warrants such a deal, the Dolphins’ ability to afford it amidst a rebuild and cap challenges is debatable.
Achane has drawn comparisons to the likes of Christian McCaffrey, Jahmyr Gibbs, and Bijan Robinson, reflecting his significant impact on the field. The Dolphins must weigh whether to capitalize on his trade value now or retain their top playmaker as the running back market surges.
Teams with late first-round picks, like the Seahawks or Jaguars, might find Achane an enticing alternative to an unproven rookie. As the offseason unfolds, Achane’s destination remains a key storyline.
Regardless of where he lands, De’Von Achane is set to be rewarded for his exceptional contributions, and rightfully so. His future looks bright, and whether in Miami or elsewhere, he's poised to continue making waves in the NFL.