The Miami Dolphins have built their reputation on explosive offensive plays, but their latest headlines didn’t come from highlight-reel touchdowns. Instead, Tyreek Hill delivered a brutally honest assessment of teammate De’Von Achane’s limitations, creating the kind of locker room buzz that defines championship teams or derails them entirely.
Why Did Hill Call Out Achane’s Power Running?
Hill didn’t mince words when addressing the Dolphins’ persistent short-yardage struggles. The All-Pro receiver offered a direct solution that put his teammate squarely in the spotlight.
“Take De’Von [Achane] out on third down,” Hill said. “What? That’s my honest opinion. If it’s third and short, he’s not a power back. I be telling him that in the locker room, but he swear he a power back. I love De’Von, but if I’m being honest, that’s why you got Jaylen Wright, that’s why you got Ollie Gordon. For those kind of situations.”
The comments immediately sparked discussion across South Florida and beyond. Hill’s blunt evaluation highlighted Miami’s ongoing weakness in short-yardage situations, an area where Mike McDaniel’s otherwise dynamic offense has consistently faltered.
That’s how you feel @cheetah https://t.co/eNKMmWpXNG
— De’Von Achane (@ffvmousvon_) August 1, 2025
Achane fired back with characteristic humor, responding on X with a playful jab: “That’s how you feel @cheetah”
What Do the Numbers Say About Miami’s Short-Yardage Problems?
Hill’s criticism carries statistical weight. The Dolphins ranked 25th in short-yardage rushing efficiency during the 2024-25 season, a glaring weakness for a team loaded with offensive weapons. The numbers become even more telling when examining Achane’s individual performance in these crucial moments.
Achane was 6-for-12 converting third downs last year. In all short-yardage situations, he converted 15 of 34 attempts, a stat that reinforces Hill’s argument about situational usage. While the speedster excels in open space and creates explosive plays, power situations clearly aren’t his strength.
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Meanwhile, rookie backs Jaylen Wright and Ollie Gordon have drawn praise throughout training camp for their physicality between the tackles. Both players could see expanded roles in short-yardage packages as McDaniel seeks solutions to this persistent problem.
The timing of these conversations reflects broader pressure on the organization. After finishing 8-9 in 2024-25 and missing the playoffs for the first time under McDaniel, the team faces heightened expectations entering the new campaign.
How Will This Impact Miami’s Locker Room Chemistry?
Despite the directness of Hill’s comments, the exchange appears rooted in competitive leadership rather than personal animosity. Hill has consistently challenged teammates publicly while maintaining strong relationships behind the scenes, an approach that often galvanizes successful teams.
Achane’s lighthearted response on social media suggests no lasting damage to their relationship. The playful nature of his reply indicates the kind of competitive banter that can actually strengthen team bonds when handled properly.
With training camp in full swing and preseason games approaching, McDaniel faces important decisions about personnel deployment. The coaching staff has already acknowledged the need for better situational balance, hinting that changes in short-yardage packages could be coming soon.
For a team with championship aspirations, addressing these tactical shortcomings becomes essential. Hill’s public challenge might be exactly what the Dolphins need to finally solve their third-and-short struggles and take the next step toward contention.
