Raheem Mostert Will Return in Week One

 

The Miami Dolphins are hoping to get some usage out of running back Raheem Mostert this season. There have been ample concerns about the 30-year-old's health. In 2021, he started in just one game for the San Francisco 49ers: the first of the season. 

He played four offensive snaps before going down with a knee injury. That was bad enough. But then the news broke that Mostert had suffered significant cartilage damage in his knee---enough to end his season. Things turned out fine for the 49ers. They made up for Mostert's absence through running back Elijah Mitchell and wide receiver Deebo Samuel. The former proved himself a worth RB1, and the latter showed insane rushing capabilities. 

San Francisco realised they no longer needed Mostert. They didn't resign him after the offseason, thus sending him to free agency. The Miami Dolphins eyed potential in the once-RB1 and pounced on the opportunity. They signed him to a one-year deal worth $3.13 million. That's a low-risk signing for a running back who once proved himself a playoff hero during the 49ers' run in 2019. 

And now Mostert is healthy and set to return for the Dolphins in Week One. They'll be taking on the New England Patriots with a team that looks starkly different from last year. Tyreek Hill will be lining up wide alongside last year's breakout receiver Jaylen Waddle. Offseason running back acquisitions Chase Edmunds and Sony Michel are also vying for important roles on their new team. 

 It remains to be seen what kind of role the Dolphins will use Mostert in. Myles Gaskin rushed for 612 yards last season, but will probably lose his RB1 spot to Edmunds or Michel. With those two running backs bearing the grunt of the team's rushing labour, Mostert could have a tough time earning consistent playing time. But he'll be a good backup for the Dolphins in case of injury. 

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