After the Miami Dolphins shocking victory over the Buffalo Bills, head coach Mike McDaniel blasted media reports that stars De’Von Achane and Jaylen Waddle were subjects of trade talks.
McDaniel didn’t deny the reports, but instead said there isn’t enough thorough reporting and highlighting one or two players isn’t fair.
Achane led the Dolphins (3-7) to victory Sunday with 225 scrimmage yards and scoring two fourth-quarter touchdowns of 59 and 35 yards. Waddle had five receptions for 84 yards and a touchdown on Sunday.
Mike McDaniel Critical of Media Reports About Trade Phone Calls
NFL insiders reported last week that interim general manager Champ Kelly had discussion at the trade deadline involving Achane and Waddle, but Kelly ultimately decided to keep both of them. The topic got a rise out of McDaniel during the postgame press conference.
“I’m happy with our collective decision,” McDaniel said. “It’s frustrating every trade deadline to me because there’s like 30% of the information is reported. That is very, very normal to have people check in if you have a losing record. That’s pretty much autopilot of the entire National Football League is you try to see if there’s anybody willing to let go of their best players. So I think with our record, … ten times out ten you’re gonna get calls.
“I’ve never once thought of those dudes not as a Dolphin. It’s only healthy not to turn your phone off but I think it’s pretty status quo. I wish they reported every person that was inquired about around the league and I’m sure that would dilute that headline.”
De’Von Achane Addressed Trade Rumors Postgame
According to Next Gen Stats, Achane gained 195 yards after contact (165 rushing, 30 receiving) — the most by any Dolphins player since at least 2017. The 24-year-old back also forced a career-high 11 missed tackles, generating 100 yards after forcing a missed tackle, showcasing his elite balance and explosiveness.
Following the win, Achane addressed the team’s resilience and reaffirmed his commitment to the Dolphins, despite reports that he was involved in trade discussions prior to Tuesday’s deadline. While no deal materialized, Achane remains a key piece of Miami’s offense and is eligible for a contract extension this offseason.
“I want to be here,” he said. “No matter our record this is where I want to be. I was glad neither one of us was gone.”
De’Von Achane Not Surprised by the Win
The disparities couldn’t be more stark. Buffalo at 6-3 are considered a Super Bowl contender with a top rushing offense and MVP Josh Allen at quarterback. While the Dolphins have all but been written off, falling to 3-7 amid a front office shakeup and uncertain job security for head coach Mike McDaniel.
The Bills were 9.5 favorites over the Dolphins, but lost by 17 points, 30-13. A surprise to many, but not to the Miami locker room.
“This wasn’t no shock to us,” Achane said. “We put in the work week in and week out.”
“When we clicking on all cylinders and when we able to end the game from an offense standpoint, that’s the type of football we want to play.”
Achane credited the defense, which had its most dominant performance of the season with three takeaways and three sacks.
“We played great on all levels,” Achane said, “when we play like that, we can win against anybody.
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