The Miami Dolphins will finish their season on Sunday as they take on the 13-3 Patriots in New England. Miami will look to avoid being swept by the Patriots for the first time since 2016, and aim to finish without double-digit losses for the first time since 2019.
Despite being mathematically eliminated from postseason contention, the Dolphins will have plenty to play for as several players and members of the coaching staff will audition for their jobs in 2026. NFL Network’s Cameron Wolfe reported that head coach Mike McDaniel’s future is currently undecided, and that their quarterback room may see some changes prior to the 2026 season.
For now, all eyes are on the Dolphins’ matchup against the Patriots on Sunday. The Patriots have won 12 out of their last 13 games.
Dolphins Announce Signing
Prior to the game, the Miami Dolphins announced the signing of former Michigan running back Donovan Edwards. The running back was on Washington’s practice squad before the Dolphins signed him to their active roster. He’s perhaps best known as the cover star for the video game EA Sports College Football 25, where he appeared alongside Travis Hunter and Dolphins quarterback Quinn Ewers.
Despite his college football fame, Edwards went undrafted before signing with the Jets, who waived him before the season. He then signed with the Washington Commanders’ practice squad before the Dolphins signed him. The running back has yet to play an NFL snap, but that may change depending on the injury status of Miami running back De’Von Achane.
The Draft Network described Donovan Edwards as an “athletic and versatile running back whose straight-line speed allows him to be an effective back working the perimeter of defense in the run game and as a pass-catcher.” They highlighted his ability as a pass-catcher, calling him a mismatch in the passing game. In their final evaluation of him, they projected him to be a selection Day 3 of the 2025 NFL Draft, however, as previously mentioned, he went undrafted.
Edwards did see some preseason action for the Jets, where he impressed in New York’s win over Green Bay. He finished with 63 scrimmage yards and could have had more but a 73-yard touchdown was negated following a holding penalty called against New York.
Dolphins vs Patriots
It remains to be seen whether the signing of Donovan Edwards will have an impact in Miami’s game against New England or if it is a case of wanting to have a young player under contract for the future. For De’Von Achane’s availability on Sunday, it’s likely a bad sign as the Dolphins’ Pro Bowl running back has not practiced this week with a shoulder injury.
If Achane is ruled out, Jaylen Wright would likely handle the primary running back duties for the Dolphins. Against the Jets, Achane went out in the second quarter and Wright finished the game with 24 carries, 107 rushing yards, and a touchdown. Wright also added 56 rushing yards on five carries against Tampa Bay in Week 17.
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