Who Should I Start? Darren Waller or De'Von Achane

Tuesday, October 7, 10:35 AM

Miami Dolphins tight end Darren Waller missed the first three games of the season with a hip injury, but he has made a huge impact in the last two weeks. He had two touchdowns against the Jets in his first game after returning following a year in retirement, and he found the end zone again in Week 5 against the Panthers. His snap count jumped from 16 (28%) in his debut to 32 (58%) in his second game back, and he should continue to get as much run as he can handle. Last year, Jonnu Smith was a productive tight end with Tua Tagovailoa, and Waller looks like he can be as he ramps up this season. Waller will help carry the load for Miami with Tyreek Hill (knee) out for the season, as Jaylen Waddle takes over the top receiver role. He's a fringe TE1 at this point, but if he stays healthy, it looks like he'll be able to be a solid standard-league starter in favorable matchups.

Saturday, October 4, 10:31 AM

Miami Dolphins running back De'Von Achane should be very busy in an extremely favorable matchup in Week 5, when his team rolls into Carolina. Achane is coming off a season-high 20 carries on Monday night against the Jets in Week 4, totaling a season-high 99 rushing yards and scoring his first rushing touchdown. His targets were down dramatically because the Dolphins played from ahead, but he could get more work as a receiver with Tyreek Hill (knee) done for the season. Coach Mike McDaniel knows that Achane is a key playmaker in the offense ans always is sure to get him his volume. The Panthers have been a good matchup for running backs, giving up three running back touchdowns in four weeks along with 110 rushing yards and 30.3 receiving yards per game to the position. Achane should continue to serve as the primary back in Miami, and even though he is sharing a little work with rookie Ollie Gordon II, he remains a great play in all formats. His big-play ability, consistent volume, and favorable matchup combine to place him at No. 5 in the RotoBaller RB rankings for this week.