Earlier this week, Mike MacDonald told The Athletic’s Michael-Shawn Dugar, “We need to improve on our run game. It’s pretty cut and dry.” Initially, the quip seemed nothing more than banal coachspeak touching upon the obvious. The Seahawks are averaging 3.7 yards per carry, 27th in the NFL.
However, a recent article suggests there could be more behind’s MacDonald’s words. Sportskeeda’s Tony Pauline reports hearing rumors of a blockbuster trade that would drastically shake up the Seahawks’ backfield. The player involved? Explosive Miami Dolphins running back De’Von Achane.
“The other rumor I’m hearing is a possible straight up trade to the Miami Dolphins for running back De’Von Achane, a move the Seahawks would make if the opportunity existed,” Pauline writes. “Even if no such deal is available, Seattle could make a move for the ball carrier if Miami continues to lose games and chooses to sell off pieces. Achane would bring the speed and home run-hitting ability not presently found at running back for the Seahawks.”
What the Seahawks Would Give up for Achane
Pauline’s report stems from ongoing speculation the Seahawks will trade embattled cornerback Riq Woolen before the Nov. 4 deadline.
“Rumors are that Woolen, a fifth-round pick of the Seattle Seahawks in 2022 who went on to become a Pro Bowl player as a rookie, is on the trading block. And sources confirmed to me that the team will look to move the cornerback, who is in the final year of his rookie deal, before the trade deadline,” Pauline says.
While Miami certainly lacks talent in the secondary, it would be shocking for them to part ways with Achane, who’s under contract through 2026, for what could possibly be a one-year rental in Woolen. The Dolphins could, of course, sign the 26-year-old cornerback to a long-term deal and hope he rediscovers Pro-Bowl form by the time the team is more competitive. Still, the Seahawks would likely need to surrender significant draft capital to complete a Woolen-for-Achane trade.
Why Would Seattle Be Interested in Achane?
Seattle’s run game has been lackluster and inefficient to start the year, belying the team’s 4-2 record. The Seahawks rank 24th in rushing yards per game (104.2) and have heavily relied on explosive plays through the air, led by Darnold and Smith-Njigba.
Achane would, in theory, elevate Seattle’s rushing attack immediately. He’s racked up 390 rushing yards and three touchdowns through six games, while averaging 5.1 yards per attempt. He’s a threat in the passing game, too, with 29 receptions for 195 yards and three receiving touchdowns.
Most offensive coordinators would covet Achane’s speed and dual-threat ability, so it makes sense why any team would be interested in acquiring him. However, Seahawks fans (and fantasy owners) would quickly mention that Seattle’s backfield is already crowded. Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet split carries fairly evenly, and adding a third running back would further muddle the committee. Seattle could cut ties with one of its current backs in a corresponding move, but the root of the rushing issues seems more related to scheme and execution than personnel.
The rumored Achane trade isn’t a question of talent. If GM John Schneider could snap his fingers and add Achane to the backfield, he would do so immediately. But there are numerous logistical gaps on both Seattle’s and Miami’s sides that make the trade unlikely to occur.
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