Riley Patterson steps in as Miami’s kicker after Jason Sanders hits IR, the first of up to three practice-squad elevations to fill the Week 1 gap at Indianapolis. Jeff Wilson Jr. slides into a bigger backfield role with Jaylen Wright sidelined, giving the Dolphins a steadier option behind Mostert. With Darren Waller out, Julian Hill and Tanner Conner are the two on the active TE depth chart, while Hayden Rucci and Greg Dulcich loom as potential roster moves to keep the offense versatile.

If Miami adds another tight end, Alec Ingold’s workload could shift and two-TE packages might dip, reshaping Week 1 attack plans at Lucas Oil Stadium. The key for fantasy managers is monitoring how the kicking, backfield, and TE usage evolve as final roster decisions loom before kickoff.

De’Von Achane returned to Dolphins practice and is expected to be active for Week 1 against Indianapolis, per Schefter. Achane’s 907 rushing yards, six rushing TDs and 78 receptions on 87 targets last season anchor Miami’s backfield, making him a near-DBL threat when healthy. His presence could sharpen the offense and ease workload pressure on fellow backs as the team opens the season.

With Achane back, Jeff Wilson Jr. and JaMycal Hasty are in the mix behind him, while rookie Ollie Gordon adds depth. The backfield’s Week 1 usage will influence fantasy lineups, with Achane likely handling primary duties if he clears early health checks and Wright’s leg situation remains limited.

Hill returns to Dolphins practice and is projected to be ready for Week 1, easing concerns after his oblique injury. Achane has a calf issue but is described as on track for Week 1; Wright had a minor procedure and is expected to miss multiple weeks. Miami added JaMycal Hasty and Jeff Wilson to the practice squad to bolster depth. Hill and Achane on track heightens Miami’s Week 1 ceiling, with Waddle remaining a strong target depending on Hill’s workload.

Hill’s return makes Waddle a more palatable target in drafts, and Achane’s health remains the key determinant of the backfield’s upside. The Colts await Week 1, where Miami’s health and playmakers should translate to fantasy-friendly opportunities.

Miami's backfield shifts after Jaylen Wright's small procedure puts him out for a spell, triggering depth moves with Jeff Wilson and JaMycal Hasty in the fold. De'Von Achane remains the Week 1 focal point, while Ollie Gordon's preseason surge hints at FLEX upside during byes. Wright's absence tilts early-season workload toward Achane and the newly signed veterans, creating clear value and risk levers for fantasy managers.