Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa had some major praise for rookie running back De’Von Achane after his two strong performances in Week 3 and Week 4 of the 2023 NFL season.
Tagovailoa called Achane “special,” and he believes the NFL is “on watch.”
“The entire NFL can see it. He’s a special player.” – Tua Tagovailoa on De’Von Achane, complimenting his acumen and preparation. “The entire NFL is on watch.”
— Joe Schad (@schadjoe) October 4, 2023
A third-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, Achane has quickly become one of the most dangerous weapons in Miami’s offense.
He did not play in the team’s Week 1 win over the Los Angeles Chargers, and he ended up getting just two touches (one carry and one reception) in Week 2 against the New England Patriots.
However, a blowout win over the Denver Broncos allowed Achane to truly showcase what he’s all about.
He carried the ball 18 times for 203 yards and two touchdowns against Denver. He also added two scores through the air, catching four passes for an additional 30 yards. The four-touchdown game was a huge performance for so early in Achane’s career, and he built on it in Week 4 against the Buffalo Bills.
Despite Miami losing to Buffalo 48-20, Achane added two more touchdowns to his resume. He carried the ball eight times for 101 yards, ripping off a long run of 55 yards against the Bills. The rookie also caught three passes for 19 yards in the loss.
After back-to-back strong games, Achane revealed how his game has changed early on in the season.
De’Von Achane says he’s very decisive now. He’s not thinking as much. He knows what he’s doing. #MiamiDolphins
— Joe Schad (@schadjoe) October 4, 2023
Achane may only be scratching the surface of his talent, and he should see plenty of chances to make big plays in this explosive Miami offense.
Mike McDaniel’s team has a ton of speed at running back with Achane and Raheem Mostert, and the team has arguably the NFL’s fastest player at wide receiver in Tyreek Hill. McDaniel has said that Achane will have a role in the offense going forward.
It will be interesting to see how teams plan to scheme against the Dolphins and Achane in the coming weeks.
Miami takes on the New York Giants, who are just 1-3 this season, in Week 5 on Sunday, Oct. 8. The Dolphins are hoping they can get back in the win column after suffering their first loss of the season in Week 4.
