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Dolphins Pledge Bigger Role for De'Von Achane After Week 1 Loss

Coaches say Achane was underused in the season opener and plan to alter the game plan to give him more touches against a 49ers front dealing with injuries.

Overview

  • The Dolphins fell 27-13 in the season opener and left Sunday with De'Von Achane credited with just 14 touches despite playing roughly 86% of offensive snaps.
  • Achane finished Week 1 with 36 rushing yards on 3.3 yards per carry and four receptions for 30 yards, numbers coaches called insufficient to leverage Miami’s top offensive weapon.
  • Offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik explicitly warned the team will not leave a game with Achane 'only having 14 touches,' signaling a deliberate change to play calling and touch distribution.
  • San Francisco’s injured front seven gives Miami a tactical opening to run more, and staff comments plus Achane’s own suggestion that QB Malik Willis use his legs more shape the Week 2 game-plan discussion.
  • Achane was the Dolphins’ 2025 MVP after a 1,350-yard rushing season, and increasing his role now would aim to steady the offense, sustain drives, and reduce pressure on the passing game.