The Miami Dolphins are getting a much-needed boost ahead of their Monday night showdown with the Pittsburgh Steelers: running back De’Von Achane is expected to suit up despite exiting last week’s game with a rib injury.
That’s big news for a Miami team still clinging to postseason hopes as we head into the final month of the regular season. At 6-7, the Dolphins have little room for error, and having Achane back in the lineup could be critical as they face a 7-6 Steelers squad that’s also fighting for a playoff spot.
Kickoff is set for 8:15 p.m. ET on ESPN.
Achane left last week’s game against the Jets in the first half after taking a hit to the ribs and didn’t return. Even so, Miami cruised to a 34-10 win - their sixth straight victory - showing that this team is finding its stride at just the right time. But make no mistake: Achane’s presence changes the dynamic of this offense.
Now in his third NFL season, the 24-year-old is putting together a breakout campaign. Through 13 games, he’s racked up 1,126 rushing yards on 193 carries - a blistering 5.8 yards per attempt - and has found the end zone seven times on the ground.
He’s also been a reliable target out of the backfield, hauling in 55 catches for 383 yards and four more scores. That kind of dual-threat production is what makes him so valuable in Mike McDaniel’s offense.
Before he exited the Jets game, Achane was putting on a clinic. He logged seven carries for 92 yards - that’s 13.1 yards per rush - and punched in a touchdown.
He also added a 13-yard reception on his only target. It was a short outing, but one that showed just how explosive he can be when he’s on the field.
Still, even with their recent hot streak, the Dolphins are in a tight spot when it comes to playoff positioning. According to one playoff simulator, their chances of making the postseason sit below 1% heading into Week 15. Even if they win out and finish 10-7, their odds only rise to about 11%.
The issue? Tiebreakers.
Miami has already dropped head-to-head matchups against the Colts, Chargers, and Ravens - and they’re behind the Texans in conference record. That’s a tough hill to climb when eight AFC teams already have at least eight wins.
The Dolphins do currently hold the edge over Buffalo in the standings, but tiebreakers with the Bills, Jaguars, and Chiefs are still to be determined.
In other words, Miami doesn’t just need to win - they need help. But getting Achane back is a step in the right direction. His return adds stability to an offense that’s been building momentum, and if the Dolphins are going to keep their slim playoff hopes alive, they’ll need every bit of firepower they can get.
It’s a long shot, but this team isn’t going down quietly. And with Achane back in the mix, they’ve got one of their most dangerous weapons ready for the fight.