Miami Dolphins star running back De'Von Achane has received a troubling 2026 season outlook after signing his massive contract extension.
According to Alex Kay of Bleacher Report, Achane is predicted to fade this season.
"The situation in South Beach is looking extremely dire following last season's 7-10 finish. That disappointing result prompted sweeping changes to the organization, including the dismissal of renowned offensive mind Mike McDaniel from his head coaching post and the release of longtime quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.
"The Dolphins are trending towards a full-blown rebuild under new head coach Jeff Hafley. The former Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator will have his work cut out as he tries to maximize the limited talents of the squad's depleted roster in his first year.
"Factor in the departures of top wideouts Jaylen Waddle and Tyreek Hill—who were replaced by clear veteran downgrades in Jalen Tolbert and Tutu Atwell—and there simply is not enough talent in place to stop opposing defenses from keying in on Achane.
"Expect a regression, potentially a significant one, from a player being taken as the RB9 with an ADP of 15."
De’Von Achane enters season as Dolphins' clear offensive centerpiece
The 24-year-old is set to enter only his fourth season in the league, and has established himself as one of the more premier backs in a short time.
The Dolphins rewarded the star back this offseason with a massive four-year, $64 million extension.
While the expectation is that Achane will only get better, he will be the sole focal point on a lowly Dolphins offense. That means a ton of attention from opposing defenses, making it easier to game-plan against.
On top of that, there are more questions than answers when it comes to the Dolphins, especially regarding their offense.
Quarterback Malik Willis has yet to start more than six games in his four-year NFL career. The Dolphins paid him to be the starter, at least for 2026, and it's unclear whether he has the talent or endurance to start in most, if not all, games.
The play of Willis will certainly play a factor in Achane's success; however, it won't be do or die. The Pro Bowl running back will mostly rely on his insane and quick speed and the offensive line.
Achane is a menace with the ball in his hands, averaging 5.6 yards per rushing attempt and already has a total of 22 touchdowns on the ground in 44 games.
It's hard to see Achane not at the top of his game this season, especially considering his projected role and the money he received this summer.
More NFL news: