The Miami Dolphins selected Kenyan Drake in the third-round of the 2016 NFL Draft with the hopes that he could become a key contributor in the run game and on special teams. After a season in which the former Alabama running back only received 42 touches on offense, things are now looking up for Drake.

Last year’s starting RB Jay Ajayi is currently in the NFL’s concussion protocol, and Drake is looking to take advantage of the extra reps according to the Sun Sentinel. He’s proven to be much more effective as a receiver out of the backfield, but the 6-1, 212-pound running back from Powder Springs, Ga., also has the ability to be an effective runner.

It’s only a matter of time before Ajayi is back in the starting lineup — considering the former Boise State product rushed for 1,272 yards and 8 touchdowns in his second season with Miami — but until then, Drake is trying to put his best foot forward in working towards a larger role.

There will continue to be competition from Damien Williams, who is listed as the second-team running back on the depth chart, but coming out of Alabama, Drake isn’t new to having to compete for snaps. Look for the former Alabama product to see significant action in the team’s first preseason game this Thursday against the Atlanta Falcons at 7:00 pm ET.