Mental strides entering Year 2 Dolphins offensive coordinator Frank Smith praised Achane's improved "understanding of the offense" Thursday, saying "he's really made substantial growth," Adam Stites of USA Today... Impact Achane said earlier this offseason that he's added muscle and improved his route running, and it appears that he's made a substantial mental leap as well. Even in a crowded backfield that also houses Raheem Mostert, rookie fourth-round pick Jaylen Wright and veteran Jeff Wilson, it's difficult to ignore Achane's positive offseason momentum, especially coming off a rookie campaign in which he averaged 7.8 YPC on 103 carries, including four games with over 100 rushing yards. If Achane is able to maintain similar efficiency while both staying healthy and retaining a large workload, he'll have a clear path to superstardom and elite fantasy production, and thus far it appears he's put himself in prime position to make good on that potential. Of course, Achane's small frame remains a concern despite added muscle, especially after he missed he missed five games and most of a sixth due to injury as a rookie. Still, if his building offseason drumbeat is to be believed, Achane's explosiveness, improvement as a receiver, and upgraded mental game could be enough for consistent high-end production, even without a true workhorse role.
AUGUST 4 • ROTOWIRE
