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Dolphins’ Rookie is Poised to Become Next Big Weapon in Miami

Miami Dolphins fourth-round pick Jaylen Wright is well-positioned to become another big weapon for the league's top offense.
jaylen wright

The NFL is an offensive-driven league and teams are always looking for new weapons to add pressure to opposing defenses. Miami fielded the league’s number-one offense in 2023 and returned what’s regarded as the league’s top pass-catching duo. As well as a rushing attack that posted 27 touchdowns in 2023, tied for first in the league with San Francisco and Detroit. In the fourth round of this year’s draft, the Dolphins selected an explosive talent that slots into an offense that’s capable of making him a household name.

Dolphins’ Jaylen Wright Poised to Become Next Big Weapon in Miami

Explosive Playmaking Ability

Miami drafted Jaylen Wright after trading up into the fourth round to select him with the 120th overall pick. The former Tennessee Volunteer was one of the most explosive playmakers in college. The speedster totaled less than 400 total touches in his college career but relayed those limited reps into big-time production. In his final season, he averaged 7.4 yards a rush, good for fourth best in the entire country, and eclipsed 1,000 yards on the ground. His skill was on full display throughout the season against some of the nation’s top defenses.

His 4.38 speed fits perfectly with Dolphins Head Coach, Mike McDaniel’s, track team on offense. Wright’s more than just fast though. He averaged 4.35 yards after contact last season and racked up almost 600 yards after evading the first defender. Highlighting that he’s a whole lot more than just straight-line speed. He flashed how quickly he can make defenses pay in limited preseason action.

Devon Achane’s Success in 2023 is a Shining Example of Wright’s Potential

The addition of Wright comes one year after Miami selected Devon Achane in the third round of the 2023 NFL draft. Achane was very productive in college, eclipsing over 1,100 yards in his final season to go along with 11 total touchdowns. His ability to score from anywhere on the field is what made him so attractive for Miami’s offense and he put on a show as a rookie.

It’s that potential and skill set that Miami covets and it’s the production they feel Wright can emulate. He slots into a backfield that features the reigning rushing touchdown leader in Raheem Mostert, as well Achane, and do-it-all workhorse Jeff Wilson, who was hurt much of 2023. A backfield loaded with playmaking ability, in addition to the speed they all possess.

The crowded running back room may give some pause on the success Jaylen Wright will see as a rookie. But the fact that Miami traded up for him points to them having a plan to utilize him often.

The Dolphins rushing attack was a big play waiting to happen in 2023. Mostert totaled over 1,000 yards and scored a league-high 18 rushing touchdowns and Achane rushed for 800 yards in just 11 games, for an absurd 7.8 yards a carry, the best average since 1934. The Dolphins are hoping to keep their, score from anywhere type potential, on the field at all times with the addition of Wright.

Achane took a few games to make his impact felt in 2023, so there’s no guarantee that Wright will find instant success early in the season. He possesses all the skills necessary to be a big-time weapon in Miami though. The Dolphins have their fingers crossed that another meteoric rise like the one they saw with Achane, is on the horizon. Making an already tough offense to game-plan for even tougher. All while creating another household name, with some major fantasy football upside as well.

Main Image: Kim Klement Neitzel-USA TODAY Sports

Phil Van Pelt

Phil Van Pelt

Phil Van Pelt currently calls the Treasure state (Montana) home, but is originally from South Florida. He's always remained loyal to his hometown squads and is a diehard Miami Hurricanes, Dolphins, Heat, Marlins, Florida Panthers and Inter Miami fan.

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