MIAMI — Tyreek Hill is known for his speed and big plays, but when it comes to the Miami Dolphins’ short-yardage struggles, he’s offering a blunt solution to head coach Mike McDaniel: “Take De’Von Achane out on third down.”
Hill’s comments come after a season in which the Dolphins struggled to convert third-and-short situations, ranking among the worst in the NFL in this area.
In fact, the Dolphins converted only 36.3% of their third downs in 2024, and they particularly struggled with third-and-1, third-and-2, and third-and-3 situations.
Hill’s Blunt Take on Achane
In an honest and direct response to a question about how to improve the Dolphins’ third-down success, Hill said, “What? You wanted— that’s my honest opinion. If it’s third and short, he’s not a power back.”
Hill was referring to De’Von Achane, the Dolphins’ rookie running back, who has speed but isn’t known for his power in short-yardage situations.
Hill went on to explain, “I be telling him that in the locker room, but he swear he a power back. I love De’Von, though, but if I’m being honest, that’s why you got Jaylen Wright, that’s why you got Ollie Gordon, for those kinds of situations.”
It’s rare to hear a player speak so bluntly about his teammates, but Hill’s point about the need for a stronger running back on third-and-short situations is clear.
Dolphins’ Struggles on Third and Short
The Dolphins were 25th in the NFL last season in converting third downs, and a big reason was their lack of success on third-and-short. In 2024, they were just 17-for-32 (53.1%) when trying to convert 1-3 yard runs, which was nearly the same success rate as their passing game in these situations (52.9%).
Hill’s comments highlight a key issue: Achane, who’s great at gaining yardage with his speed, isn’t built for the power running needed to convert short-yardage plays. Achane struggled to convert third-and-short situations in 2024, with a conversion rate of just 44.1% on any down in short-yardage situations.
Wright and Gordon’s Potential Role
Hill pointed out that the Dolphins have Jaylen Wright and Ollie Gordon for those tough short-yardage plays. Wright had limited opportunities last season but was 2-for-3 when he did get short-yardage carries, showing a better success rate in these situations.
Achane’s Unique Role on the Offense
While Hill’s criticism might seem harsh, it’s based on the Dolphins’ offensive needs. Achane brings speed and versatility to Miami’s offense, making him a threat on bigger runs or plays where his quickness is an advantage.
But when it comes to pushing for a few yards in short-yardage situations, Hill argues that the Dolphins need a more powerful back.
A Direct Approach From Hill
Hill has been outspoken in Miami recently, and while some of his previous comments have caused friction, this straightforward analysis of the Dolphins’ short-yardage struggles could be just the perspective they need. Sometimes, the blunt truth about team dynamics can lead to positive changes.
