The Miami Dolphins have made a move to add some much-needed depth to their running back room. Miami claimed former Washington Commanders running back Kaytron Allen off waivers Friday, just one day after Washington waived the rookie.
Source: Former Commanders RB Kaytron Allen was claimed today on waivers by the Miami Dolphins. https://t.co/VjUYAbW9eG
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 9, 2026
The move comes at an important time for the Dolphins, who have been forced to adjust their backfield following a season-ending injury to De’Von Achane. Allen now gets an opportunity to continue his rookie season in Miami and potentially earn a role in an offense that could use another physical presence at running back.
Dolphins add Allen after Commanders release
Allen was selected by Washington in the sixth round of the 2026 NFL Draft after an outstanding career at Penn State. The rookie appeared in all four games for the Commanders this season, recording 12 carries for 41 yards while also contributing 29 snaps on special teams.
His numbers in Washington were limited largely because of a crowded backfield. The Commanders had several established options ahead of Allen, including Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Rachaad White and Austin Ekeler. After Ekeler returned to the roster, Washington ultimately decided to waive the rookie with the hope that he could potentially return to the practice squad.
That plan did not work out.
Miami had a high waiver priority and quickly stepped in to claim Allen, giving the 23-year-old another opportunity to establish himself in the NFL.
Allen could have opportunity in Miami
The Dolphins’ decision to claim Allen is directly tied to the need for additional running back depth. Achane suffered a torn ACL, leaving Miami with a significant void in its backfield. Ollie Gordon II and Jaylen Wright have taken on larger roles, but the Dolphins clearly believe adding another young running back is worthwhile.
Gordon had a breakout performance in Week 4, rushing for 100 yards and a touchdown on just nine carries against the Minnesota Vikings. Wright, meanwhile, struggled to produce, managing only seven yards on five carries.
Allen brings an impressive college résumé to the situation. During four seasons at Penn State, he became the program’s all-time leading rusher with 4,180 yards and 39 touchdowns on 769 carries. He also caught 70 passes for 490 yards and four touchdowns.
For now, Gordon appears to be in position for the largest workload, but Allen’s arrival gives Miami another intriguing option. If he can quickly learn the offense and prove himself on special teams, he could have a chance to carve out a meaningful role as the season progresses.
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