yahoo
The Washington Commanders no longer face a running back dilemma. Rookie Kaytron Allen was claimed off waivers by the Miami Dolphins on Friday afternoon, just one day after the Commanders decided to part ways with him.
Allen becomes the first player from the 2026 draft class to be cut and subsequently claimed, adding uncertainty for a Washington front office that had limited draft capital. The rookie originally joined the Commanders as one of two sixth-round selections.
Miami offers a familiar landing spot for Allen, who impressed in his NFL preseason debut against the Dolphins, rushing for 85 yards and a touchdown in a Commanders victory.
The Dolphins' running back room has been reshaped by the season-ending ACL injury to De'Von Achane. Allen now joins Ollie Gordon, Jaylen Wright, and Carlos Washington in the week five rotation.
General manager Adam Peters acknowledged Friday morning that the team had hoped to re-sign Allen to the practice squad if he cleared waivers. However, the Commanders made the move as they navigate a lengthy injury list and several key inactives ahead of week five.
With Stefon Diggs sidelined by a hamstring injury, Washington listed wide receiver Terry McLaurin among Friday's questionable tags, along with three players activated from injured reserve to practice. That group includes running back Jeremy McNichols, who adds to the Commanders' midseason backfield shuffle.
Austin Ekeler stood out in Washington's week four loss in London despite having signed just days earlier. Rachaad White is also expected back on Sunday after missing the week four game with a shoulder injury, leaving the Commanders to determine who will serve as the third running back in week five.
Allen's time in Washington ends with 41 yards on 12 carries. The Virginia native arrived after becoming Penn State's all-time leading rusher.
Seeking to avoid a 1-4 start to the 2026 regular season, the Commanders will aim for their first divisional win when they host the New York Giants on Oct. 11. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 PM ET.
Originally reported by yahoo.