De'Von Achane Leads NFL Ball Carriers in Yards After Contact in 2025 Season

Miami Dolphins running back De’Von Achane has emerged as the team's standout player in 2025, showing significant improvement in breaking tackles and yards gained after contact, with averages that place him among the NFL’s elite running backs. Despite his smaller size and playing behind a weaker offensive line, Achane’s performance ranks him alongside top backs like Jonathan Taylor and James Cook. Taylor continues to excel with the Colts, leading fantasy points for running backs and maintaining a high level of efficiency despite a relatively low number of touches per game. The broader NFL landscape is seeing a resurgence in the importance of running backs, reversing previous trends that undervalued the position as passing offenses became dominant. This shift is evidenced by increased investment in running backs and improved rushing efficiencies across teams. Debates persist about the comparative durability and career longevity of top backs like Saquon Barkley, Derrick Henry, and Jonathan Taylor, reflecting ongoing discussions about player roles and value in modern NFL offenses.