J.K. Dobbins Joins Broncos on $5.25M Deal: A Revamped Backfield in Denver
The Denver Broncos have made a decisive move to bolster their backfield by signing running back J.K. Dobbins to a one-year, $5.25 million contract. After a resurgent season with the Los Angeles Chargers in 2024, Dobbins lands in Denver with the opportunity to add explosiveness, experience, and much-needed depth to a running game that has struggled with consistency in recent years.
A Promising Comeback Journey
J.K. Dobbins, 26, has endured a turbulent NFL career marked by significant injuries. Drafted in 2020 by the Baltimore Ravens, he was once viewed as one of the league's most dynamic young backs. However, a torn ACL, LCL, and meniscus sidelined him for the entirety of the 2021 season. Additional setbacks in 2022 and a devastating Achilles tear in Week 1 of 2023 further hindered his progress. Many questioned whether he would ever return to form.
But 2024 brought a turning point. Signed by the Chargers to a low-risk, high-reward one-year deal, Dobbins seized the opportunity. In 13 games—11 of them starts—he posted a career-high 905 rushing yards and nine touchdowns. He averaged 4.6 yards per carry and tallied 1,058 scrimmage yards, proving he could still be an elite-level contributor when healthy. His performance earned him a runner-up finish in Comeback Player of the Year voting and reestablished his value on the open market.
Why Denver Makes Sense
For the Broncos, the decision to bring Dobbins on board aligns with their strategy to revitalize the offense under head coach Sean Payton. Denver’s ground game was among the league’s least productive in 2024, finishing in the bottom 10 for both rushing touchdowns (12) and yards per carry (4.1). The departure of Javonte Williams to the Dallas Cowboys left a void, one that neither Jaleel McLaughlin nor Audric Estimé could fully fill.
Denver’s second-round selection of RJ Harvey out of UCF showed the franchise’s commitment to refreshing the position with young talent. But Harvey’s inexperience presents risk, making the addition of a seasoned runner like Dobbins a smart move. With his vision, patience, and burst, Dobbins complements the rookie's raw upside and adds a layer of security to the offense.
Backfield Outlook: A Competitive Trio
Heading into the 2025 season, the Broncos' running back room looks markedly more competitive. Dobbins joins Harvey and Estimé as part of a trio that brings a blend of youth, physicality, and versatility. Harvey’s explosive college tape made him a high-upside pick, while Estimé, who tallied over 300 rushing yards last season, is expected to see an increased workload.
Dobbins, meanwhile, brings veteran leadership and a proven ability to produce when healthy. His presence will likely reduce the pressure on Harvey to immediately perform as a feature back. Payton may choose to rotate the trio depending on game situations, with Dobbins offering third-down and red-zone value thanks to his agility and scoring ability.
Health and Expectations
The most significant variable in Dobbins’ potential impact remains his durability. While his 2024 campaign showed promise, he still missed games due to an MCL sprain and has a history of knee and lower-body injuries. The Broncos medical staff will have to monitor his workload carefully. Nonetheless, if Dobbins remains healthy, he could very well outperform his contract and become a central figure in Denver’s playoff aspirations.
Expectations are high in Denver following a return to the postseason in 2024, snapping a decade-long drought. With rookie quarterback Bo Nix expected to lead the offense, a strong running game will be crucial. Dobbins could serve as a stabilizing force, aiding in play-action schemes and providing a reliable outlet for the young signal-caller.
A Win-Win Deal
This deal represents a low-risk, high-reward scenario for the Broncos. At $5.25 million for one year, Dobbins’ contract is a modest investment for a player capable of producing at a high level. For Dobbins, it’s a chance to continue proving himself and potentially parlay his performance into a multi-year deal in 2026.
As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on Denver’s new-look backfield. If Dobbins can build on his 2024 success and stay on the field, the Broncos could finally have the offensive balance they've been seeking.







