The Washington Commanders' backfield is bustling with talent after general manager Adam Peters made some savvy moves early in free agency. Yet, the buzz around a potential blockbuster addition hasn't quieted down.
Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love is a name that keeps popping up in mock drafts for the Commanders. Landing him at No. 7 overall would be a coup, given the immediate impact he could have on the field.
Another intriguing name in the mix was De'Von Achane. The Commanders were rumored to be interested in the explosive playmaker amid the Miami Dolphins' roster shakeup, which recently saw wide receiver Jaylen Waddle traded to the Denver Broncos for draft picks.
However, ESPN's Adam Schefter has poured cold water on the idea of Achane moving. Teams interested in the former Texas A&M star are reportedly being told he's staying put.
This development might catch some off guard. Yet, considering Dolphins GM Jon-Eric Sullivan's recent praise for Achane, it seems Miami values him enough to consider a contract extension rather than a trade.
"I mean, he's a marvelous player. We want him to be part of this thing moving forward. We will have those conversations with him as well as some other guys as we move down the road, but that's going to be later in the summer."
Miami might be in a rebuilding phase, but keeping a dynamic threat like Achane could be crucial for new quarterback Malik Willis. The Commanders, meanwhile, don't appear to have the draft capital to make a tempting offer, and Schefter’s update only dims the possibility further.
Washington might be content with their current backfield lineup of Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Rachaad White, Jerome Ford, and Jeremy McNichols. Or perhaps they're setting their sights on Love if he's available when their turn comes in the draft. Either way, acquiring Achane doesn't seem likely.
Peters has been strategic, focusing on building through the draft rather than splurging on trades. Bringing in Achane would stray from that approach, especially considering the hefty contract he might demand soon.
The idea was enticing, but realistically, it was always a long shot.