The Miami Dolphins have emerged as one of the top teams to watch for fantasy football enthusiasts, primarily due to the dynamic coaching of Head Coach Mike McDaniel. McDaniel has been a revelation for fantasy purposes, his aggressive play-calling helping the team to score 496 points last season—second only to the Dallas Cowboys—and amass the most yards overall in the NFL.
Quarterbacks
Tua Tagovailoa (ADP QB14 / My Rank QB16)
At first glance, Tua Tagovailoa presents a deceptively promising fantasy option. Despite being drafted last year as a borderline QB1/QB2, he finished as QB9 overall. However, a closer examination reveals a different story.
On a points-per-game basis, Tua ranked only 19th among quarterbacks. From week 9 onward—a critical phase in the fantasy season—he plummeted to QB29, undermining many fantasy rosters caught up in the aura of Miami’s offensive weapons. Tua’s early-season performance often inflates perception; he historically performs well in September and October, only to see a marked decline as the season progresses. He is a classic “sell high” candidate before November.
Running Backs
Devon Achane (ADP RB9 / My Rank RB22)
Despite averaging just 12.8 opportunities per game in the 11 games he played last year, Devon Achane’s explosive play made him look like a fantasy superstar, ranking as RB4 on a points-per-game basis. However, his astounding 7.77 yards per carry and 7.8% touchdown rate are unsustainable.
Achane’s smaller stature contributed to him missing seven games, and his production significantly dropped to RB19 from weeks 12-18. Fantasy managers should adjust expectations and draft positions accordingly.
Raheem Mostert (ADP RB28 / My Rank RB21)
Mostert, the more consistent and reliable back, will continue as the lead after signing a $9 million extension fresh off a season where he finished as the RB3 overall. He has less career wear and tear compared to his peers at age 32 especially with only 796 touches. Recently has established a history of good health only having missed 3 games in the last two seasons. Mostert’s injury risk is comparable to any other running back, making his current ADP undervalued.
Jaylen Wright (ADP RB42 / My Rank RB55)
Rookie Jaylen Wright, while promising, is unlikely to disrupt the existing backfield hierarchy significantly this year. The third running back spot in Miami’s offense has historically been limited to backup duties, suggesting Wright’s immediate impact will be minimal and contingent on injuries further up the depth chart.
Given just one injury wouldn’t be enough for Wright to receive a lead role, his value should be considered as a dart throw handcuff. In which case his current ADP of RB42 is a bit aggressive.
Wide Receivers
Tyreek Hill (ADP WR2 / My Rank WR2)
Tyreek Hill excelled last season, reaching a career-high in targets and yards and maintaining his value even when the rest of the offense faltered during the second-half stretch. His prime production at age 30 and makeup of the offense suggests he can sustain this high level of play.
Jaylen Waddle (ADP WR21 / My Rank WR21)
Despite a less impressive year, Waddle’s potential in McDaniel’s system is undeniable having finished as the WR7 in 2022. Injuries plagued Waddle throughout 2023 and prevented him from getting into a rhythm.
Even in a “down” year though Waddle was still the WR23 on a points-per-game basis. Now he is being drafted at his floor providing good value for 2024.
Odell Beckham Jr. (ADP WR87 / My Rank WR81)
Beckham’s role in the Dolphins’ offense is likely to be minimal, making him a less relevant option in smaller leagues. His involvement has decreased over the years, aligning with the reduced focus on pass catchers outside of Hill and Waddle in McDaniel’s system.
Tight Ends
Jonnu Smith (ADP TE22 / My Rank TE22)
Jonnu Smith’s best days seem behind him, with there likely to be limited opportunities in the Dolphins’ centralized offense. While he might offer some utility as a streamer, his ceiling is notably low, reflecting his diminished role since his eight-touchdown season with the Titans in 2020.
The Miami Dolphins offer a mix of high-reward and high-risk fantasy options. Smart drafting and timely trades, especially with players like Tua and Achane, could be the key to fantasy success. As always, staying informed and adjusting strategies based on player ADP value will be crucial.
This article was written by Dan Mader @DanMaderFF. Come join Fantasy Football Advice Network for more content discussions. Enjoy previous articles like Biggest Rookie Risers and Fallers.
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