Alexander Mattison’s season-ending neck surgery rocks the Miami Dolphins’ backfield just as De’Von Achane and Jaylen Wright were primed for increased opportunities. Mattison, signed to a one-year deal, was third on the depth chart behind Achane and Wright. Miami is bringing Jamaal Williams in for a tryout, signaling the team is looking to stabilize depth quickly. The injury occurred in a preseason play against Chicago, with Mattison already a Raiders and Vikings veteran who has rushed for 2,790 yards and 15 touchdowns in his career and hauled in 1,012 yards on 136 receptions. Fantasy players should brace for a bigger early-down role for Achane, with Wright stepping into more of a change-up and third-down workload, while Williams remains a potential external addition.

Miami’s immediate concern shifts to maintaining productive volume behind Achane, whose speed and burst are fantasy catalysts when touches arrive. Wright’s versatility could unlock more set concepts and third-down plays, increasing both players’ floors in standard and PPR formats. The Bears preseason game provided the backdrop for Mattison’s exit, opening doors for the Dolphins to optimize their committee and protect Achane’s long-term usage. As Williams eyes a possible payday in Miami, the team is signaling they’ll push for a quick fix to the depth chart while navigating potential in-season adjustments.