Dolphins Disappointment at 2026 Pro Bowl with Sole Selection of Achane
Despite entering the season with high hopes, the Miami Dolphins fell short of expectations regarding their representation at the 2026 Pro Bowl Games. The franchise managed to secure only one player on the roster: running back De’Von Achane. This singular selection is a stark reminder of the team’s inconsistent performance throughout the season.
An Underwhelming Presence
Achane’s selection was a bright spot in an otherwise lackluster showing for the Dolphins. While he was recognized for his remarkable performance, four other players were named as alternates: fullback Alec Ingold and inside linebacker Jordyn Brooks earned first alternate status, while wide receiver Jaylen Waddle and safety Minkah Fitzpatrick were listed as third alternates. Perhaps most surprising was the omission of center Aaron Brewer, who has consistently garnered praise for his exceptional downfield blocking but failed to even secure an alternate position.
Adding to the Dolphins’ disappointment is the fact that the only former player selected for the Pro Bowl was safety Jalen Ramsey, who, after a summer trade, is now with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Achane’s Stellar Season
Achane’s inclusion as a first-time Pro Bowler in his third NFL season marks a significant achievement for the young running back. He is now the ninth player in Dolphins history to earn this honor, following the likes of Jay Ajayi and Raheem Mostert. Throughout the season, Achane has showcased his talent, leading the league with an impressive rushing average of 5.8 yards per carry and accumulating 1,267 rushing yards as of Week 16.
He has also made history by becoming the Dolphins’ 12th player to rush for over 1,000 yards in a single season, achieving this milestone in just 12 games. Additionally, Achane ranks fourth among NFL running backs in both receiving yards (459) and receptions (64), and he has made a significant impact in the passing game with four receiving touchdowns. His total of 1,726 yards from scrimmage places him fifth in the league this year.
In his career, Achane has amassed 2,974 rushing yards on 526 attempts, accompanied by 22 rushing touchdowns. He has also recorded 169 receptions for 1,248 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns. Notably, Achane is the first Dolphins player to surpass 2,000 rushing yards and 1,000 receiving yards within his first three seasons—an impressive feat that cements his status in franchise history.
The Case for Alternates
The omission of Brooks is particularly perplexing, as he leads the NFL in tackles and was among the top vote-getters for AFC inside linebackers. Despite his stellar performance, the two selected linebackers were Roquan Smith of the Baltimore Ravens and Azeez Al-Shaair of the Houston Texans. Smith’s selection was likely influenced by his name recognition, while Al-Shaair benefited from playing on one of the league’s top defenses in recent weeks.
Ingold, too, found himself edged out, this time by Patrick Ricard from the Ravens. The prospects for both Brooks and Ingold earning a spot in the Pro Bowl Games, scheduled for the San Francisco area during Super Bowl week, hinge on the potential withdrawal of selected players due to injury or personal matters.
Brewer’s exclusion was also notable, as he was outperformed for the center position by Creed Humphrey of the Kansas City Chiefs and Tyler Linderbaum of the Ravens. Despite the Ravens’ subpar record of 7-8—only slightly better than the Dolphins—six of their players received Pro Bowl selections. Had Pro Football Focus rankings been a deciding factor, Brewer, who is currently ranked second among NFL centers, might have secured a spot.
As for Brooks, he ranks seventh among AFC inside linebackers and 14th overall out of 86, further highlighting the surprising nature of his omission.
Looking Ahead for the Dolphins
The Dolphins’ limited representation at the Pro Bowl reflects a broader narrative of the team’s struggles this season. While Achane’s accomplishment shines brightly, the lack of acknowledgment for other deserving players serves as a reminder of the challenges the Dolphins have faced. As the franchise looks toward the future, it will undoubtedly aim to build upon the successes of its standout players while addressing the shortcomings that led to this disappointing Pro Bowl showing.
