Wright is down, but Ollie Gordon II has been ‘up’ and shinning all camp
The Miami Dolphins are facing a setback in their backfield as rookie running back Jaylen Wright has been sidelined with an injury, forcing the team to adjust their plans for the next few weeks. Sources indicate that Wright will miss multiple games, though the exact timeline remains dependent on his recovery progress. Thankfully, rookie Ollie Gordon II has proven over this preseason to be as reliable, if not more, than Wright.
All reports are that Devon Achane will be ready for Week 1 and the Dolphins signed former Phins running back Jeff Wilson to the practice squad. Gordon, Achane, and Wilson will be enough to drive the Miami rush attack, but another injury would be disastrous.
As for Wright, considering the Dolphins used two fourth round picks on him, he was used sparingly last season, didn’t look good this preseason, and is now hurt, fans are left wondering if his selection was another miss for Chris Grier.
Wright out might give Gordon the chance to shine
Wright, a promising addition to the Dolphins’ roster, has been a dynamic presence in training camp and the preseason. Known for his combination of size and burst through gaps, made him earmarked as a key contributor to Miami’s short-yardage and rotational running game by fans. His absence puts added pressure on fellow backs Devon Achane and Ollie Gordon II to maintain production while staying healthy.
The timing of Wright’s injury is particularly inconvenient as the Dolphins prepare for the early portion of their 2025 schedule, where they must come out of the gate hot.
Head coach Mike McDaniel acknowledged the challenge in a press conference, emphasizing that the team is confident in the depth of the running back room, but that Wright will be missed.
“It’s unfortunate to lose Jaylen for a stretch,” McDaniel said. “He’s been working hard and was starting to find his rhythm. We’ve got capable players behind him, and we’ll adjust, but we’ll be eager to get him back as soon as he’s ready.”
Achane and Gordon can and must carry the load
Achane, who has seen action as both a speed back and in third-down situations, will likely see an expanded workload, while rookie Gordon II will have additional opportunities to prove himself in short-yardage and rotational roles. The Dolphins have also added veteran Wilson to bolster depth in the backfield.
Wright’s injury highlights the ongoing challenges Miami has faced maintaining continuity in the backfield. Injuries to key backs earlier in camp, including De’Von Achane’s minor setback, have already tested the Dolphins’ depth chart. For now, the team will lean on a combination of experience and youth to keep the ground game productive while ensuring Wright receives the proper care to return healthy.
The great news is Gordon brings pure power and is a better pass blocking than both Achane and Wright. He has also had as good a camp as could be expected showing himself the best running back not named Achane. You can bet with the best pay per head that Gordon’s power will be a huge asset for a Dolphins squad that struggled to run inside and on short downs last season. The question is will Gordon continue to shine when it counts?
Phins fans will be watching closely over the next few weeks, hoping Wright’s absence is short-lived and that Gordon will give Miami’s running game the power it has needed for a long time!
You can bet the house that we need this storyline to play out the right way for us!
