Miami Gardens, FL – Amidst a significant roster overhaul, the Miami Dolphins have made one thing abundantly clear: running back De’Von Achane is not available for trade, sources confirmed to Archysport.com. The news comes as the Dolphins navigate a latest era under general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan and head coach Jeff Hafley, who have been actively reshaping the team’s core.
Teams that have recently reached out to Miami inquiring about Achane’s availability were swiftly informed he is off-limits, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on Tuesday. This decision signals a clear intention to build around the young running back, despite a broader strategy of shedding veteran contracts and resetting the roster’s financial outlook.
The Dolphins have been aggressively retooling their roster this offseason, highlighted by the recent trade of wide receiver Jaylen Waddle to the Denver Broncos and veteran defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick to the New York Jets. These moves, coupled with the release of franchise quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and his replacement with free agent Malik Willis, demonstrate a commitment to a significant shift in personnel. However, Achane appears to be a cornerstone of the new vision.
Sullivan addressed the possibility of a contract extension for Achane during the NFL Scouting Combine, stating, “He’s a marvelous player. We want him to be part of this thing moving forward… We will have those conversations with him as well as some other guys as we move down the road, but that’s going to be later in the summer.” This statement underscores the team’s desire to retain Achane beyond his current rookie contract, which concludes after the 2026 season.
Achane, 24, is poised to be a central figure in Miami’s revamped offense, coordinated by first-year coordinator Bobby Slowik. His performance last season was a key factor in the Dolphins’ offensive success, and the team clearly values his versatility and potential. For fans unfamiliar with Achane’s impact, he represents a dynamic rushing threat and a reliable receiving option – a rare combination in today’s NFL.
Last season, Achane enjoyed a breakout year, rushing for a career-high 1,350 yards and eight touchdowns. He led the league in yards per carry, averaging an impressive 5.7 yards, showcasing his explosive running style. Beyond his rushing prowess, Achane contributed significantly as a receiver, hauling in 67 catches for 488 yards and four touchdowns. This dual-threat capability makes him a particularly valuable asset in Slowik’s offensive scheme.
The Dolphins’ commitment to Achane comes at a time of significant financial challenges. The team currently carries approximately $175 million in “dead money” – cap space allocated to players no longer on the roster – impacting their salary cap flexibility. Despite these constraints, the organization has prioritized retaining Achane, signaling his importance to their long-term plans.
The decision to hold onto Achane also reflects a broader shift in the Dolphins’ approach to roster building. After years of pursuing splash acquisitions, the new leadership appears focused on developing talent internally and building a sustainable contender. Achane, a fourth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, embodies this philosophy.
While the Dolphins have undergone substantial changes, the core message remains consistent: they believe in De’Von Achane and his ability to lead their offense. The coming months will be crucial as the team navigates contract negotiations and prepares for the 2026 season. The focus now shifts to building around Achane and solidifying his role as the focal point of the Dolphins’ attack.
The Dolphins will next be in action for organized team activities (OTAs) beginning in late May, providing the first glimpse of Achane in Slowik’s new offensive system. Fans can follow updates on the team’s official website and social media channels for the latest news and information.
Marcel Louis-Jacques of ESPN contributed to this report.
