Chargers RB J.K. Dobbins is among the best non-QBs for Comeback Player of the Year

NFL Comeback Player of the Year tends to go to players making returns from previous injuries, with the exception of a few seasons. That methodology applies to the opening betting odds this season as well.

Via DraftKings, a few injured quarterbacks in particular are favorites for the award. Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers leads the field at +140, followed by Joe Burrow at +300 and Kirk Cousins at +500.

However, the list isn't made up exclusively by quarterbacks. Cleveland RB Nick Chubb is the favorite amongst non-quarterbacks at +1200. Chubb will miss at least four games as he opens the season for Cleveland on IR. Second amongst non-quarterback odds for the award is new Chargers RB J.K. Dobbins at +4000.

J.K. Dobbins at least has a chance of winning an award with the Chargers

The case for Dobbins needs little explanation as oft-mentioned as his injury history is. The former Ravens' running back tore his ACL in his sophomore season in 2021. Another knee injury caused him to miss six games in 2022. Last season, Dobbins suffered an Achilles tear that yet again robbed him of another full season.

If Dobbins can manage to play most of the games this season, he should receive decent volume in Greg Roman's offense. However, he will have to split carries with Gus Edwards as well as maybe sixth-round selection Kimani Vidal.

Dobbins has been asked by the media about his injury history on several occasions since joining the Chargers. Recently, he dropped a quote about his attitude in dealing with said injuries that have piled up:

Neither Edwards nor Dobbins played in the preseason for the Chargers. Roman acknowledged a lack of certainty in what the run game would look like until both backs actually play in the regular season:
"I'll be fully transparent," Roman said. "I never have an idea of what it's going to look like until I see it during the season and see it evolve during the season."

It doesn't feel like there is a clear RB1 on the roster, at least not compared to the volume that Austin Ekeler had in the Chargers' offense in seasons prior. If Dobbins can return to form, there's certainly a chance he could receive more carries.

Earlier this offseason, Dobbins touted his career 5.8 yards per carry as evidence of what he could do with the Bolts this season.

Dobbins and Edwards will split carries in some fashion when the Chargers kick off against the Raiders at SoFi Stadium on Sunday.