Why rebuilding Dolphins made controversial De'Von Achane decision

Many assumed that a rebuilding Miami Dolphins side that may be planning to "tank" the upcoming season with the 2027 draft in mind would make running back De'Von Achane available to would-be buyers ahead of this year's player-selection process. 

Instead, new Dolphins general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan made it known before the 2026 draft that Achane was "not available for trade." On Tuesday, NFL insider Dan Graziano of ESPN explained the Dolphins' handling of Achane this offseason. 

Dolphins aren't completely punting on 2026 season?

"Talking to Dolphins people throughout this offseason," Graziano wrote, "what I've been told is that the team views Achane, center Aaron Brewer and linebacker Jordyn Brooks as foundational players and candidates for extensions rather than trades. Miami is focused on the future, for sure, but new coach Jeff Hafley and new GM Jon-Eric Sullivan aren't interested in just white-flagging their first season by stripping things all the way down to the studs. Also, they need some players to build around, and they have identified Achane as one worth keeping long term."

Following the 2025 season, the Dolphins parted ways with head coach Mike McDaniel and with big-name players such as wide receiver Jaylen Waddle, quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, receiver Tyreek Hill and pass-rusher Bradley Chubb. Meanwhile, Achane is in the final year of his rookie contract and may be part of yet another losing season if he stays with the Dolphins. 

As of Tuesday morning, DraftKings Sportsbook had the Dolphins second among the betting favorites at +400 odds to finish the 2026 campaign with the league's fewest wins. Nevertheless, it sounds like Miami will pay Achane unless an advertised contender makes a so-called "'Godfather' offer" for his services. 

Teams not matching Dolphins' asking price for De'Von Achane

"...If a team offered a first-round pick for Achane," Graziano continued, "as the Broncos did for Waddle, the Dolphins' opinion of the standout running back as part of their future might have wavered a bit. But teams aren't offering first-round picks for running backs that they'd then need to pay big money to keep. The smart bet is on the Dolphins extending Achane's contract at some point this offseason."

One wonders what kind of extension Achane's camp is looking to land after the New York Jets and Breece Hall recently agreed to a three-year deal reportedly worth up to $47.75M.