It’s always smart to have a backup plan, and sometimes, even a third option is necessary.
The Miami Dolphins are surely relieved they prepared not only a Plan B but also a Plan C for their running back situation. They currently have two standout RBs on the roster—veteran Raheem Mostert and second-year speedster De’Von Achane—both of whom sustained injuries during their Week 1 victory.
One has already been ruled out for the Dolphins’ Week 2 Thursday Night Football clash with the Buffalo Bills, while the other still has a chance to play. Fortunately, there’s no indication that either injury is serious enough for a long-term absence. In any case, the Dolphins have other capable players ready to step up if needed.
Here are the latest updates on Mostert and Achane’s injuries leading up to Week 2.
Raheem Mostert Out, Achane Expected to be Game-Time Decision
Raheem Mostert reportedly played through a chest injury in Week 1, but struggled to make an impact, managing just nine yards on six carries. Following the game, he was listed as a non-participant in practice, though there was optimism he’d be available for Thursday.
GIVEMESPORT Key Stat: Injuries have plagued Mostert throughout his career. In nine years, he’s played a full season just once, in 2019. However, since joining the Dolphins in 2022, he’s only missed three games.
Despite hopes for his recovery, Mostert missed practice again on Tuesday and was officially ruled out on Wednesday, leaving De’Von Achane’s status as the only uncertainty.
Achane also remained on the field during the game, posting 10 carries for 24 yards, but was later diagnosed with an ankle injury that kept him out of practice Monday and Tuesday. Unlike Mostert, the 22-year-old was back on the field Wednesday for the team’s walk-through, showing no visible limitations and skipping the red jersey typically worn by injured players. He’s officially listed as a game-time decision for Thursday.
Should Achane be sidelined alongside Mostert, veteran Jeff Wilson Jr. is next in line for the starting role. Wilson, like Mostert, was discovered by 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan and the two undrafted backs shared four seasons in San Francisco. Wilson has been solid since arriving in Miami midway through 2022, averaging 4.6 yards per carry last season, and led the Dolphins’ backfield in efficiency in Week 1, with five carries for 26 yards.
Rookie fourth-round pick Jaylen Wright, known for his speed, could make his NFL debut if Achane sits out. Wright, who didn’t play in Week 1, would likely serve as the third-down back, while Wilson handles early-down duties.
While missing their top two running backs isn’t ideal, Miami’s offense still looked sharp in Week 1, even with Mostert and Achane combining for just 33 yards on 16 carries. Head coach Mike McDaniel has shown he can adapt, and with Wilson ready to step in, the Dolphins shouldn’t face too much of a setback.
