It has been a long road for former standout Tennessee running back Jaylen Wright. Not too long ago, Wright was sprinting past SEC defenders, making it look like a Pop Warner game. In his time as a Tennessee Volunteer, Wright had 368 carries for 2297 yards and 18 touchdowns.
Wright was drafted in the 4th round of the 2024 NFL draft by the Miami Dolphins. Miami head coach Mike McDaniel's scheme is known to be a running back friendly system, but Wright has been stuck behind one of the league's best backs in De'Von Achane.
That all changed on Sunday when Achane left the game with a rib injury and it was Wright's time to shine. Versus the New York Jets, Wright had a career high rushing yards with 107 on 24 carries and he even scored his first career touchdown.
#VFL Jaylen Wright scores his first NFL Touchdown🍊 pic.twitter.com/3v8nbs961U
— More Important Issues (@More_Issues) December 7, 2025
There’s no question that Wright has the talent to compete at the highest level. He is an elite athlete who can make sharp cuts and hit a home run. Wright also possesses the ability to catch balls out of the backfield and be a receiver, so the talent is clearly there, he just needed a chance, and he made the most of it.
Mike McDaniel praised Wright in his postgame media session for his attitude and his grit. He put his head down and worked hard and when he got his opportunity he shined.
Wright was a fan favorite during his time in Knoxville, so it's great to see him finally show off what he can do in the pros. If Achane is out next week, hopefully Wright is the lead back once again and can showcase his ability.
Seeing Wright succeed in the NFL is just another example of how well Tennessee players have done at the next level.