Dolphins coach optimistic RB De’Von Achane will play vs. Colts

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — Miami Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel is “optimistic” that running back De’Von Achane will clear concussion protocol in time to play Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts.

Achane was diagnosed with a concussion during Miami’s win over the New England Patriots in Week 5 and was automatically placed into the league’s return to participation protocol. He wore a red noncontact jersey in the Dolphins’ first practice of the week Monday, but he shed the jersey and practiced in full Wednesday and Thursday.

McDaniel said Achane’s full clearance is reliant on an evaluation by an independent neurological consultant after Friday’s practice, but he expects the second-year back to receive said clearance, barring an unforeseen setback. He was present during the portion of Friday’s practice open to the media and appeared to be a full participant.

“Would I say I’m optimistic? Absolutely,” McDaniel said. “I do not have a crystal ball. Something could happen today, but barring an event that you can’t forecast, I feel pretty good about it.”

The Dolphins rushed for a season-high 193 yards against the Patriots, with rookie Jaylen Wright and veteran Raheem Mostert combining for 163 of them.

Achane leads the team with 369 scrimmage yards on a team-high 77 touches, and he is the only Dolphins player with multiple touchdowns this season. He was a sensation as a rookie with 997 scrimmage yards and 11 touchdowns in 2023.