newsweek
In a surprising move on Thursday, the Washington Commanders waived rookie running back Kaytron Allen. The 23-year-old did not stay on the open market for long, as the Miami Dolphins claimed him off waivers on Friday, according to ESPN insider Adam Schefter.
Allen was selected by Washington in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL Draft out of Penn State, where he left as the Nittany Lions' all-time leading rusher with 4,180 yards. Despite joining a Commanders backfield filled with uncertainty, he struggled to carve out a consistent role. Over the first four games of the 2026 season, Allen received just 12 carries, gaining 41 yards without finding the end zone.
Miami's decision to claim Allen is a logical one. The Dolphins have been searching for answers at running back since losing star DeVon Achane to a torn ACL. Second-year back Ollie Gordon II had a strong showing last week, rushing for 100 yards and a touchdown, but questions linger about whether he can sustain that level of production for the remainder of the season.
Key Analysis
If Gordon cannot maintain his momentum, Allen could finally get the opportunity he never received in Washington. The young running back will be motivated to prove the Commanders wrong for giving up on him so early in his career.
Originally reported by newsweek.