New Dolphins Rumors on De'Von Achane, Core Players' Contracts After Jaylen Waddle Trade

Despite parting ways with several key players this offseason, the Miami Dolphins are reportedly considered likely to make a long-term commitment to star running back De'Von Achane.

According to ESPN's Dan Graziano, the Dolphins view Achane, center Aaron Brewer and linebacker Jordyn Brooks as "foundational players," and they would prefer to extend them than trade them.

Graziano noted that the Dolphins would perhaps change their stance on Achane if offered a first-round pick, but since that is highly unlikely to happen given that Achane is a running back and in need of a new contract, the two sides reaching an extension this offseason is considered the "smart bet."

The Dolphins did trade wide receiver Jaylen Waddle to the Dolphins this offseason after identifying him as a building block for the future, but as pointed out by Graziano, that was because they received an offer that was too good to pass up.

Miami sent Waddle and a 2026 fourth-round draft pick to the Broncos for the 30th overall pick in the first round of the 2026 NFL draft, as well as 2026 third- and fourth-round selections.

On top of trading Waddle, the Dolphins released wide receiver Tyreek Hill and quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, leaving Achane as one of the only holdover skill-position players who have been big-time contributors for Miami in recent years.

The Dolphins selected Achane in the third round of the 2023 NFL draft out of Texas A&M, and the speedster has seen his role and production increase with each passing year.

After finishing with 997 yards from scrimmage and 11 touchdowns as a rookie, Achane had 1,499 total yards and 12 touchdowns in 2024, and 1,838 total yards and 12 touchdowns last season.

The 24-year-old was named a Pro Bowler for the first time last season, as he set a new career high with 1,350 rushing yards and matched his career high of eight rushing touchdowns, while also catching 67 passes for 488 yards and four scores.

Achane also led the league among qualified players with 5.7 yards per rush last season, and maintaining that level of performance may be the only way to help the Dolphins remain competitive in 2026.

There are huge question marks surrounding Miami's passing game led by free-agent signing Malik Willis at quarterback and several new faces at wide receiver, including free-agent signings Tutu Atwell and Jalen Tolbert, and rookie draft picks Chris Bell, Caleb Douglas and Kevin Coleman Jr.

Achane figures to be the key to Miami's offensive success in 2026, and the organization would perhaps be wise to get him locked up for years to come before he potentially has another career year this coming season.