The Miami Dolphins’ running back competition has taken a significant hit due to a series of injuries affecting key players. As the team prepares for the 2025 NFL season, optimism from offseason changes has been overshadowed by disappointing reports from training camp and preseason performances. Significant injuries have compounded the challenges faced by the Dolphins, particularly within their running back unit.
Alexander Mattison, a notable free-agent signing, is expected to miss the entire season due to a neck injury. His absence was soon followed by reports that De’Von Achane is sidelined with an aggravated calf injury. These setbacks have left the Dolphins scrambling for depth in a crucial position.
Jaylen Wright Faces Setback
The injury woes have opened the door for Jaylen Wright, a second-year running back from Tennessee, to step up. However, news broke that Wright himself suffered an injury during joint practices with the Jacksonville Jaguars. He managed to leave the field on his own but required further evaluation in the medical tent. This news is particularly disheartening, as Wright has struggled to make a significant impact in the preseason, accumulating just 16 yards on 13 carries without any receptions or contributions on special teams.
Despite the challenges, rookie Ollie Gordon II is gaining momentum in the Dolphins’ backfield. Initially viewed as a long shot in this year’s draft, Gordon has emerged as a formidable contender. In two preseason games, he has recorded 83 rushing yards and one touchdown on 18 carries, along with three receptions for 48 yards. His performance has shifted the dynamics of the Dolphins’ running back competition.
Future Implications for Wright and the Team
The extent of Wright’s injury remains unclear, and depending on the severity, he could find himself demoted to third-string upon his return. Reports indicate that during Thursday’s practice, Gordon was taking the majority of the running back reps with Wright sidelined, positioning him for a more prominent role moving forward.
The Dolphins are now facing a critical juncture in their preparations for the upcoming season. With injuries altering their roster, the performance of emerging players like Gordon will be closely monitored. Fans and analysts alike are hopeful that Wright can bounce back, but the current landscape suggests that Miami is ready to adapt to the challenges ahead.
In a season that started with promise, the Dolphins are now in a position where unexpected changes could redefine their strategy and depth chart. As the team continues to navigate this injury-laden path, the resilience of the remaining players will be essential in shaping their performance in the 2025 NFL season.
