The Miami Dolphins prepare for their Week 15 Monday Night Football matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers following their dominant victory over the New York Jets. De’Von Achane left last week’s game with a rib injury and didn’t play the entire second half. Will fantasy football managers have their star running back available this week?
De’Von Achane Injury Update
Achane had avoided injury throughout the entire season before his Week 14 exit. The dynamic running back departed last week’s contest with a rib injury following a 29-yard rush in the second quarter. The injury happened when Achane landed on the football while fighting for additional yardage.
Achane removed himself from the game immediately following the run and ultimately headed to the locker room accompanied by a member of the medical staff. Miami held a commanding 24-7 advantage at halftime, so Achane did not return for the second half. The Dolphins initially designated him as questionable to return, but Achane stayed on the sideline for the rest of the game.
All updates since then have been encouraging. Head coach Mike McDaniel revealed after the game that Achane could have re-entered the contest. With the Dolphins holding a comfortable lead, pushing him back onto the field made no sense.
ESPN’s Cameron Wolfe also shared favorable news regarding Achane’s injury. Achane underwent an MRI on Monday that revealed no fracture. He informed McDaniel he felt uncomfortable Sunday but was already feeling improved. Achane even stated himself that he could have returned to the game against the Jets if necessary.
McDaniel revealed that only treatment and rest are required for Achane. The running back is highly motivated to play Monday, McDaniel confirmed.
Achane participated in practice on Wednesday wearing a red no-contact jersey. While it may appear concerning that the team does not feel Achane can handle any contact, this represents standard procedure with rib injuries. There is no reason to risk Achane absorbing hits in practice, especially at the first session of the week. The fact that he is at practice at all is a great sign.
Achane will receive a limited designation. He will likely remain in the no-contact jersey on Friday, but expect him to shed it on Saturday and suit up on Monday.
Achane’s Fantasy Outlook
Achane has been outstanding this season. He has posted 16 or more fantasy points in all but one game. His lowest production came in Week 7 against Cleveland with 12.8 points. He has never finished below 12 fantasy points this season.
Last week, Achane extended his RB1 weekly finish streak to six consecutive games. He played just 34% of snaps before exiting with the rib injury. Through 13 games, Achane has compiled 1,126 yards and seven touchdowns on 193 carries. He has added 55 receptions for 383 yards with four receiving touchdowns.
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Fortunately, players are often able to return the following week after rib injuries. As a result, Achane should be back to his RB1 production this week against the Steelers.
The Dolphins are suddenly back in playoff contention at 6-7. Miami sits tied with the Kansas City Chiefs and Baltimore Ravens at 6-7 in the AFC standings. This means there is no risk of Achane getting shut down with a minor injury just yet.
If Achane cannot play, Jaylen Wright would assume the lead role. Wright rushed for 107 yards on 24 carries after Achane departed Sunday’s game. The second-year back demonstrated he can handle the workload if needed, though he lacks Achane’s explosiveness and receiving prowess.
Given McDaniel’s postgame comments, Wolfe’s report about no fracture on the MRI, Achane’s strong desire to play, and his participation in Wednesday’s practice, fantasy managers should expect him to suit up Monday night. The extra recovery day from the Monday night game provides him additional time to rest and receive treatment. Achane appears on track to continue his incredible fantasy season for managers still competing in the playoffs.
