Questions surround Dolphins backfield ahead of season

De’Von Achane remains atop the Dolphins’ running back depth chart entering 2025. After averaging 7.8 yards per carry as a rookie and nearly reaching 1,500 scrimmage yards last season, expectations will once again be high in his case.

Miami has used the likes of Raheem Mostert and Jeff Wilson as veteran backfield options recently, but neither are in the fold any longer. Meanwhile, the team has added Alexander Mattison via free agency and Ollie Gordon in the sixth round of the draft. Those two will join Achane and 2024 fourth-rounder Jaylen Wright in a competition for snaps during training camp.

“Each guy makes his own role on the team,” running backs coach Eric Studesville said (via C. Isaiah Smalls of the Miami Herald). “I don’t think we predetermine that. I think you gotta expose them to everything and see what they can do and let them develop into the role that they clearly take and establish on their own through what they do.”

Achane logged 281 touches last season, and he is in position to once again operate as a key figure on offense in 2025. How the rest of the backfield depth chart shakes out will be interesting to see, though, including the question of whether or not Wright can take on an increased workload in his second year. Smalls notes the 22-year-old has bulked up this offseason.

Wright showcased notable speed during his time in college, making him an obvious target for the Dolphins last year. The Tennessee product had a forgettable rookie campaign, however, logging double-digit carries in a game only once. Wright will look to earn the backup gig during training camp while the Dolphins work with a new-look offensive line and integrate Mattison and Gordon into the fold.

Miami ranked 21st in rushing last season, one in which the team finished a disappointing 8-9 and missed the playoffs. An improved ground game will be key, but aside from Achane, there is much to be determined in terms of what the backfield will look like in 2025.