De'Von Achane Just Got Paid Like an Elite Back, and the Dolphins Are All In

The Miami Dolphins aren't messing around. They just locked up running back De'Von Achane to a four-year extension worth up to $68 million, with $32 million guaranteed. That's a statement move in the middle of May, and it tells you everything about how the Dolphins see their offensive future.

New Dolphins general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan made it crystal clear from day one that keeping Achane long-term was non-negotiable, and he just made good on that promise. The contract carries a $17 million average annual value, which slots Achane in at third among all NFL running backs. Only Saquon Barkley and Christian McCaffrey make more per year. That's elite company.

The Numbers Back Up the Deal

Last season, Achane was a league-wide problem on the ground. He rushed for 1,350 yards and eight touchdowns while posting a league-leading 5.7 yards per carry. That efficiency is what separates stars from regular guys. He also chipped in 67 catches for 488 yards and four more touchdowns through the air, ranking fourth among running backs in receiving yards despite playing in one fewer game than the backs ahead of him. Fifth in rushing yards overall? That's a guy who was carrying the load and performing at the highest level.

What This Means for 2026

Achane is now locked in as the centerpiece of Miami's offense under first-year head coach Jeff Hafley. When your GM tells you during the offseason that a player is a priority and then backs it up with a deal like this, you know the organization has faith. The Dolphins are betting that Achane will continue being one of the most efficient and explosive running backs in football, and honestly, the tape from last season supports that bet entirely.

Around the League

The Jets are expected to add veteran wide receiver Tim Patrick to their room, where he'll compete for the No. 3 or No. 4 spot. Patrick has appeared in 87 career games and hauled in 191 receptions for 2,590 yards and 18 touchdowns across his time with Denver, Detroit, and Jacksonville.

Giants receiver Malik Nabers had a second knee surgery to remove scar tissue causing stiffness from his ACL and meniscus tear suffered last October. The cleanup procedure happened multiple weeks ago and shouldn't impact his recovery timeline. The Giants are optimistic he'll be ready when they open September 12 against Dallas on Sunday Night Football.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.