The Dolphins have added wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. to their roster this offseason to complement Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, and it seems they are also looking to increase the playing time of second-year running back De’Von Achane as a wide receiver, as reported by David Furones of the South Florida Sun Sentinel.
After an impressive rookie season in 2023 where he rushed for 800 yards on just 103 carries, it’s understandable that Miami wants to involve Achane more in different ways. Head coach Mike McDaniel emphasized the importance of Achane not getting comfortable after a successful rookie year, and Achane himself focused on improving his route-running to contribute more in the passing game during the offseason.
“Just me lining up at different positions, as far as like receiver, running routes and stuff,” he said. “That’s something that we’re doing different this year, so that’s something that I’ve been doing in the offseason.”
Achane saw significant action from receiver positions last season, highlighted by being targeted on 21 passes and catching 16 of them for 122 yards. Given his explosive playmaking ability, especially with a record-setting yards-per-carry average, honing his receiving skills will only benefit the Dolphins’ offense.
“He had outstanding ball production. … To find different ways to get people the ball, whether that’s different types of pass routes, whether that’s different types of run schemes that you can get comfortable with, all those things. More ways to be at the point of attack to play within this offense, that’s what this offseason really provides for him,” McDaniel said.
Achane’s offseason goals also include getting stronger to endure the physicality of the NFL and stay healthy. By utilizing his skills in the passing game and creating opportunities for him in space, the Dolphins aim to maximize his impact on the field alongside fellow dynamic back Raheem Mostert.