Dolphins vs Patriots! It started the way everyone hoped. Tough, physical, grueling matchup. It was the first quarter of the game. The Phins running back De’Von Achane attempted a catch on the sidelines at 3:00. But the rival safety Jaylinn Hawkins was there. As the RB got hit, he was wobbly. But thankfully, he could stand on his two feet.

Initially, he went to the medical tent, followed by a visit to the locker room. At first glimpse, many didn’t understand why the Dolphins players were on one knee on the sidelines. Soon, it became clear. Achane was first listed as questionable, then ruled out of the game. The reason is a concussion injury.

For the Dolphins, concussion has been the number one hope crusher. It wouldn’t be much exaggeration to say season-ending. Their premier quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is also on the IR with same injury. We’ll discuss it in this article later. For week 5 matchup, Achane’s loss is a critical hit. Before getting injured, the RB had 3 carries for 18 yards.

In the game, the Phins are forced to play with Raheem Mostert and Jaylen Wright. They kept Jeff Wilson inactive for the game. Hence, the injury puts them at a risk with weak offense, not only for today’s game, but for many weeks to come.

As we mentioned above in the article, before De’Von Achane, the Phins were already struggling with an injured QB.

De’Von Achane also diagnosed with a concussion injury after Tua Tagovailoa

In the week 2 game against the Bills, the quarterback suffered a season-ending injury. It could be a career-ending as well. No one has ruled out that possibility. The question is: how much hit can he take? It’s his 3rd concussion in 2 years.

They had put Tua Tagovailoa on IR. And he’s working on his fitness in silence. But family friend Manti Te’o has heard the whispers. He revealed that the QB wants to return (as soon as he can) as he feels an obligation to his teammates. There were enough people who wanted him to retire, but the QB doesn’t know to give up.

On Sunday, everyone got reminded of QB when De’Von Achane fell to the ground. The thing about the quarterback is that NFL medical team is also working up their concussion protocols to examine the signal caller when he returns. Tagovailoa is seeing top doctors to find that perfect blend of recovery and game ready.

It’s easier said than done. Already struggling with a QB, they will miss their RB. But Dolfans ain’t surrendering. They are standing till the last second of the game. Stay tuned! There are many more twists to come as season moves ahead.