There have been a lot of pre-draft visits for the Miami Dolphins. It isn't surprising when you hear that a defensive back, wide receiver, or an offensive lineman has met with Jon-Eric Sullivan and Jeff Hafley, but a running back?
The Dolphins have met with a few running backs so far. Most are mid-round prospects, but it makes you wonder if there is something else going on with their attention to the position.
De'Von Achane has been the biggest name thrown around this offseason. From trade speculation to a contract extension, he is the one everyone talks about. A draft pick isn't going to replace him, but for Jaylen Wright, it could be a problem.
Jaylen Wright might be being put on notice by Miami Dolphins' attention to pre-draft running backs
Any player that wasn't drafted by Sullivan should be looking over their shoulders, Wright especially. The Dolphins have four running backs on the team. Achane won't be replaced without being traded, and Ollie Gordon is the physical back of the four. Donovan Edwards is the camp body.
Wright is the odd man out if the Dolphins draft a running back this year. For starters, he has two years with the team and marginal production. Some of that isn't his fault, given his use under Mike McDaniel. He has 537 yards and two touchdowns, and doesn't contribute much in the passing game as a receiver.
The Dolphins are not going to cut Wright, but fans should not be surprised if he isn't moved on day three of the draft. Miami can dangle Wright for a late-round pick, or one in 2027. They can include him in a larger move should they need to.
What Wright needs is a team that will give him the reps to get better. There have been flashes of what he can do, but consistency is an issue that can be worked out with more playing time. Running back-needy teams might find Wright a better option than some of the later draft prospects. He is on his rookie contract with two seasons left, and has proven he can play at the NFL level. In Miami, he won't get many opportunities with Achane starting.