Running backs might’ve fallen out of favor in the modern NFL, but it still remains a premium position in fantasy football.
Finding the roster combination for your imaginary backfield could just be the thing that results in a trophy at season’s end. While the biggest, shiniest names come with all the fanfare, it’s also important to manage risk in a draft setting.
De’Von Achane profiles as one of those risky picks in 2025 – someone that can either make-or-break your season.
He finished as RB5 in PPR formats a year ago, making the speedy Miami Dolphins running back a top selection again this year. However, Achane is battling a calf injury as the preseason comes to a close – an injury that will make fantasy managers squirm as Week 1 nears.
Calf issues have become an especially close relative to the Achilles injury in recent years, only furthering the concern. Head coach Mike McDaniel doesn’t seem to be worried about Achane going forward, but should you be?
Here’s a look at the fantasy outlook for the Dolphins running back as well as whether you should take the plunge and draft him.
Should you draft De’Von Achane in fantasy?
Drafting Achane is an exercise in risk and your tolerance for it.
He is one of the best running backs in the league from a fantasy perspective. Achane plays in a RB-friendly offense and now doesn’t have a lot of competition for work in the backfield after Alexander Mattison’s season-ending neck injury.
Jaylen Wright struggled in the preseason, leaving the rookie, Ollie Gordon II, as the other contender for snaps in the backfield.
Fortunately for fantasy managers, Gordon is a complementary piece that is more of a tough runner as opposed to Achane’s finesse style that excels in the passing attack.
With no real competition for snaps, Achane has a clear path to another top fantasy finish – provided he stays healthy.
However, the soft tissue injury complicates things. In the 2024 season, Christian McCaffrey’s calf injury became a lingering issue that derailed his year.
Couple that with a Dolphins team that doesn’t figure to be good and there is some concern. Remember, you’re also drafting the team and it’s offensive line.
Achane might be immune to some of those issues though, considering his presence as a weapon in the passing game.
Verdict: Fantasy football isn’t for the faint of heart and being conservative doesn’t do you any favors. Capitalize on your leaguemates’ fear and snag Achane as he slips later into the second round. Just be sure to pick up Gordon later on.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Should you draft De’Von Achane in fantasy? Injury update, outlook
