Some NFL teams never learn.
The Los Angeles Chargers took a chance on running back J.K. Dobbins last season after he had struggled to find his footing with the Baltimore Ravens. It was an up-and-down season for Dobbins, who ultimately didn't do enough to earn a second contract with the Chargers.
Now, the Denver Broncos are convinced that they can be the team to turn Dobbins into a star.
Former Chargers running back is in over his head with Broncos
Dobbins is the kind of player fans love to root for. He's explosive, physical, and productive when he's on the field.
But that's the problem — he's rarely on the field.
Dobbins was drafted five years ago, and he's only played in 37 NFL games. He's consistently battled injuries, causing him to be sidelined for the majority of his career. Even last season, Dobbins missed significant time with a knee injury.
Even when he's been healthy, Dobbins hasn't been as consistent as fans would like. In 2024, he started out hot with back-to-back games with more than 130 rushing yards. Chargers fans were celebrating Dobbins' career resurgence as he led one of the most potent rushing attacks in the NFL.
Then, Dobbins averaged less than three yards per carry in three of his next four games. He was never able to establish himself as the clear lead back, and the Chargers let him walk in free agency because of it.
In his place, Los Angeles invested heavily in the running back position, signing Najee Harris and drafting Omarion Hampton in the first round.
A 26-year-old running back with an extensive injury history shouldn't be a prime candidate to lead an NFL backfield. But Dobbins is set to do just that for the Broncos.
Denver signed Dobbins to a one-year, $5.25 million contract this offseason.
Dobbins is expected to lead a backfield that includes rookie R.J. Harvey, Audric Estime, and Jaleel McLaughlin. If the Broncos decide to give Dobbins the majority of the carries in their offense, they're setting themselves up for disappointment.
In five years, Dobbins has never had a fully healthy season. As he gets older, it seems less and less likely that he could keep a clean bill of health. You never root for injuries, even for rival players, but it feels almost inevitable for Dobbins. If he does, the Broncos will be left with a weak running back room once again.