Dolphins’ 0-17 Nightmare Suddenly Looks More Real

The Miami Dolphins were supposed to be bad in 2026.

Three weeks into the season, they’re making those preseason predictions look downright optimistic.

Miami is 0-3, has been outscored by 50 points and just lost its best offensive weapon for the season. With De’Von Achane sidelined by a torn ACL, the Dolphins’ margin for error has gone from razor-thin to virtually nonexistent. He was coming off a season in which he registered a career-high 1,350 rushing yards and was selected to his first Pro Bowl.

There was talk that the Dolphins could become the first 0-17 team in NFL history. Without Achane, that seems more possible.

Achane’s absence creates a void in both the backfield and receiver room

Achane was one of the most versatile backs in the NFL last season after leading the league in yards per carry. He also finished with 67 catches for 488 yards and four receiving touchdowns.

Achane’s loss is devastating because the Dolphins offense will need to replace him as both a runner and a pass-catching back. The Dolphins also have a new quarterback in Malik Willis, who has started just nine career games.

Miami struggled to move the ball with Achane in the backfield, as teams often stacked the line of scrimmage. Now, Miami may look to use its passing attack to set up the running game.

The schedule doesn’t get any easier

Entering the season, the Dolphins had the second-toughest schedule in the NFL. They still have two games against the Buffalo Bills, along with contests against the Detroit Lions, Denver Broncos and Chicago Bears.

Miami will also visit the Minnesota Vikings, who lead the NFL in sacks after three weeks.

Miami has opportunities to win against the New York Jets, Green Bay Packers and Los Angeles Chargers. But Miami is unlikely to be favored in any game for the rest of the season.

The Dolphins entered 2026 knowing there would be growing pains. But losing Achane makes the climb even steeper.

Miami now has to manufacture offense without its most dynamic weapon, relying on a young roster and a quarterback still finding his footing. The schedule offers little relief, either.

The Dolphins may not become the first 0-17 team in NFL history. But after a 0-3 start and the loss of Achane, that possibility suddenly looks a lot less far-fetched.