Dolphins Embrace RB Committee After Achane’s ACL Tear; 49ers Hope for Quick Evans Return

Key points

• Jeff Hafley stated all Dolphins running backs will have roles, signaling a committee approach after Achane’s injury.
• Ollie Gordon is the primary candidate for volume, having played every-down duty in Week 3, while Jaylen Wright missed time with a foot injury.
• Kyle Shanahan indicated Mike Evans’ rib injury is not long-term, with the 49ers evaluating his return this week.
• The Dolphins’ offense ranks 31st in points per game, making the RB transition critical for their struggling unit.

Background

The Dolphins entered 2026 expecting a run-heavy offense led by Achane, who was projected to handle a large workload. His injury has forced a rapid adjustment for a team that has struggled offensively, ranking 26th in yards per game. In contrast, the 49ers have remained undefeated despite multiple injuries, including those to Trent Williams and Dre Greenlaw, relying on depth and resilience to maintain their record.

How outlets are covering it

NBC Sports emphasizes the desperation and uncertainty surrounding the Dolphins’ backfield, noting that Gordon’s previous inefficiency and Wright’s limited snaps create a challenging situation for fantasy and team strategy. In contrast, NBC Sports Bay Area highlights the 49ers’ positive outlook, with Kyle Shanahan expressing confidence that Evans’ rib injury will not sideline him for long, contrasting the 49ers’ stability with Miami’s turmoil.

Why it matters

The Dolphins’ ability to adapt their offense without their star playmaker will determine their competitiveness in the AFC East, while the 49ers’ quick return of Evans could preserve their offensive firepower and momentum in the NFC West.

What to watch

The Dolphins will likely finalize their RB committee structure in Week 4, with Gordon and Wright competing for primary roles. The 49ers will evaluate Evans’ progress during the week to determine his availability for the Week 4 matchup against the Denver Broncos.