Achane Returns, Waller Set for Debut as Dolphins Prepare for Colts in Week One
Finally, we’ve made it to the start of the 2025 NFL season. In just six short days, the Miami Dolphins will kick off their year on the road in Indianapolis against the Colts. Over the past several weeks, Miami has provided very few updates on the status of key players. Now, with less than a week to go, head coach Mike McDaniel has shed some light.
For the first time in three weeks, De’Von Achane returned to practice after dealing with a calf injury that had sidelined him. The belief is that Achane will be ready and available to play in Week One against the Colts, barring any setbacks throughout the week. Originally, reports suggested that Achane could miss several weeks, but rest from practice has helped the dynamic running back return to a healthy level. Meanwhile, tight end Darren Waller is expected to make his Dolphins debut in Week One after working hard this offseason, following his brief retirement last year.
Miami also announced its official captains for the 2025–26 season: Tua Tagovailoa, Aaron Brewer, Alec Ingold, Jordyn Brooks, Zach Sieler, and Bradley Chubb. The most notable absence is Tyreek Hill. Hill had served as a captain in each of his first three seasons with the Dolphins, but back in January, he stirred controversy by saying, “I’m out, bruh… it was great playing here. However, I have to do what’s best for my career.” Then in April, he fueled trade speculation by teasing a potential move on social media. Despite that, Hill has repeatedly said this offseason that his goal is to stay in Miami, reclaim his role as a leader, and help the Dolphins win a championship. When asked about not being named captain, Hill responded: “It’s more about the guys we picked and less about the guys we didn’t. There are a lot of guys exemplifying tremendous leadership qualities that are not captains.”
The Dolphins now turn their attention to Sunday’s matchup against the Colts. Indianapolis announced two weeks ago that former Giant Daniel Jones would be their starting quarterback, replacing Anthony Richardson, who has yet to show meaningful development. For Miami, the key to victory will be how Tua Tagovailoa and the passing attack fare against a Colts defense that finished top-10 against the run last season. With Achane back in the mix and Waller providing Mike McDaniel another weapon in his arsenal, the Dolphins’ offense has the pieces to open the season with a statement win.
