Miami Dolphins rookie running back Jaylen Wright is reportedly active for Thursday night’s primetime matchup against the rival Buffalo Bills. An ankle sprain kept the fourth-round draft pick out during Week 1. However, he is now poised for a breakout that could extend throughout the Dolphins’ season.
Miami Dolphins Rookie Jaylen Wright is Active and Ready to explode in Week Two
The former University of Tennessee superstar perfectly fits Miami’s scheme. First and foremost, he is a speedster who posted a blistering 4.38 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine. He has the pure speed and athleticism to compete with teammates like Jaylen Waddle, De’Von Achane, and even Tyreek Hill.
The Injury RB Room
Even more important for Wright’s prospective breakout is the potential for a massive workload against Buffalo. Starting RB Raheem Mostert has already been ruled out of the contest, while change-of-pace back Achane is listed as questionable. There is a real possibility that Wright leads all Dolphins runningbacks in touches as he prepares to form a tandem with veteran Jeff Wilson Jr. At the very least, the former Volunteer should serve as the primary third-down and pass-catching option (assuming Achane is limited).
It was a bit of a surprise when Miami used a fourth-round pick on Wright, especially considering their seemingly full running back room. Now, after just one week of action, the rookie finds himself in a position to handle significant work.
The Opportunity in Week Two and Beyond
Wright was a game-changer for Tennessee in 2023 when he rushed for 1,013 yards and four touchdowns on 136 carries. He has the elite speed to immediately burst onto the scene, similar to Achane’s emergence last season. A solid performance in week two would set Wright up to gain significant momentum in his young career.
In fact, with Achane being used more as a receiver in the opening game against Jacksonville, there is even a world where Head Coach Mike McDaniel could use as a receiver in the slot, with Wright lining up in the backfield. This tandem, with Hill and Waddle on the outside, would be one of the fastest units of skill position players in football history.
One thing is certain, if Wright proves worthy of NFL playing time, no coaching staff is better equipped to capitalize on his speed more than Miami’s. The rookie has a prime opportunity to burst on to the NFL scene and carve out a role for himself in week two and beyond.
Main Image: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
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