The Miami Dolphins’ decision to trade for star pass rusher Bradley Chubb right before the 2022 NFL trade deadline was such big news that the team’s acquisition of running back Jeff Wilson Jr. on that same day flew somewhat under the radar.
A couple weeks following the trade, however, and it’s hard to argue against the idea that Wilson has had a bigger impact thus far. Wilson has cemented himself as an important part of the Dolphins offense and put in some truly impressive performances.
Dolphins defensive lineman Christian Wilkins recently spoke about the team’s newest addition to the running backs room, and he made it clear that Wilson runs with anger.
“It’s fun to watch him rush,” Wilkins said of Wilson. “I don’t know who pisses him off before every game, but damn. He is a lot of fun to watch, and I’m glad he is on our team. He is a great teammate as well.”
In his first game with the Dolphins, Wilson carried the ball just nine times but managed to rack up 51 yards on the ground. He also caught all three passes that were thrown his way, adding 21 yards and a touchdown through the air.
In the following week’s game against the Cleveland Browns, Wilson was even more impressive. His usage was bumped up to 17 carries, and he took advantage of all of them. He finished the game with 119 yards on the ground, and he added a rushing touchdown.
Wilson’s addition to the team has brought a balance to the offense that the Dolphins did not have earlier on in the season. In the eight games prior to the trade, the Dolphins had a 100-yard rusher in just one game.
That came when Raheem Mostert rushed for 113 yards in Miami’s 40-17 loss to the New York Jets.
The hope is that Wilson will continue to run with anger and keep opposing defenses focused on the run.
If the Dolphins can achieve a consistent, balanced offense, quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is likely only going to improve. After all, he already has what is arguably the best wide receiver duo in the entire league in Jaylen Waddle and Tyreek Hill.
Being able to depend on the running game to get yards and move the sticks is surely only going to give the 7-3 Dolphins more opportunities to win in the regular season and beyond.
