“And then we’ve got another guy that just came in, Jaylen Waddle, you know what I’m saying?” the running back said on NFL Network’s The Insiders. “Pick your poison because we’ve got Courtland Sutton, we’ve got the young Pat Bryant, we’ve got a great O-line, we’ve got everything. We’ve got an embarrassment of riches on this team of talent.“

He even warned his rivals about what they’re about to see: “I’m excited. I really am, because, call it what it is, I got hurt, I missed the last, what, seven games in the regular season. I’m fresh. I’m gonna be fresh and I’m gonna be pissed off because I’m tired of the unfortunate stuff. “

The serious injury he suffered during the regular season kept Dobbins out for much of it. It’s not unreasonable for him to feel that thirst for revenge, especially with the talent surrounding him.

How much can Waddle contribute to the Broncos?

The addition of Waddle to the Denver Broncos is a massive win for Bo Nix, as he gains an elite vertical threat to stretch the field alongside J.K. Dobbins. Waddle arrives after a solid 2025 campaign with the Dolphins, where he hauled in 64 receptions for 910 yards and 6 touchdowns in 16 games, averaging an impressive 14.2 yards per catch.

Bo Nix’s arsenal

Heading into the 2026 season, Bo Nix is surrounded by a versatile arsenal designed to maximize his quick processing and accuracy. The unit is anchored by veteran Courtland Sutton, who remains a premier red-zone threat, and elite tight end Evan Engram, who provides a reliable safety valve across the middle.

To stretch the field, Nix can rely on the explosive speed of Marvin Mims Jr. and his former college teammate Troy Franklin, whose established chemistry with Nix offers the Broncos a high-upside vertical duo capable of punishing any secondary.

Dobbins’ injury is behind him

In 2025, JK Dobbins suffered a season-ending Lisfranc injury in his left foot during the third quarter of a Week 10 victory against the Las Vegas Raiders on November 6. The injury occurred due to a hip-drop tackle and required surgery, forcing him to miss the final seven games of the regular season and Denver‘s playoff run.

Despite the setback, Dobbins is fully expected to be ready for the 2026 season; he recently re-signed with the Broncos on a new two-year deal and stated in March 2026 that he feels fresh and ready to lead the backfield again.

Although injuries have plagued him for several weeks during the past campaign, JK Dobbins proved through his stats why he was one of Nix’s most trusted players throughout the season.

In a conversation with the media, one of the most explosive running backs in the AFC in 2025 spoke about his future, making it clear that his time in Mile High has been positive and that he would like to spend much more time wearing orange and blue.

“It’s been a great time here in my short time here,” the former Ravens and Chargers player said via NFL.com. “I think I will be here. Hopefully, I will. I’m a Bronco for life.”

Nix’s key partner

In 2025, J.K. Dobbins proved to be a vital asset for the Denver Broncos, emerging as one of the primary weapons for quarterback Bo Nix during their run to the AFC Championship.

Over the course of the season, the experienced running back demonstrated his efficiency and explosive running style, recording 153 carries for 772 yards and 4 touchdowns.

Averaging an impressive 5.0 yards per carry, his veteran presence provided the “edge” Nix needed to lead the offense, effectively balancing the ground game before a late-season injury sidelined him.

Dobbins arrived to the NFL in 2020 after being drafted in the second round by the Baltimore Ravens. His rookie season was very promising, but over the next three years, injuries prevented him from becoming a star alongside Lamar Jackson.

In 2024, he tried to revamp his career by signing with the Chargers, and it looked like he was on pace for a 1,000-yard season playing for John Harbaugh. However, another injury slowed him down. In 2025, the Broncos gave him an opportunity and he responded to that trust, until, as has been the case throughout his career, his health prevented him from taking the next step.

Why is JK Dobbins not playing today for Broncos vs Patriots?

JK Dobbins is not playing today for the Broncos against the Patriots in the AFC Championship Game due to a Lisfranc injury he suffered in Week 10 facing the Las Vegas Raiders. The running back appeared destined to miss the entire season, but he has made an impressive effort to return.

JK Dobbins might return for Super Bowl with the Broncos

JK Dobbins was a limited participant in practice all week for the Denver Broncos ahead of the AFC Championship Game against the Patriots. That opens the door for the running back to potentially be available for a hypothetical Super Bowl, with two extra weeks of recovery.

Prior to the 2025 NFL season, the Broncos added a new running back to Bo Nix’s offense, signing JK Dobbins to a one-year, $2.065 million deal in a move that quickly paid off for the AFC West club.

After a strong start to the season, Dobbins emerged as a key asset for Nix and the offense. However, his momentum came to a halt in Week 10, when he suffered a serious foot injury that sidelined him for the remainder of the regular season.

Will JK Dobbins return for the Super Bowl?

Dobbins sustained a Lisfranc injury in early November, an issue that typically ends a player’s season. While he was initially expected to miss the entire campaign, recent reports suggest there is optimism surrounding a potential late return.

If the Broncos make a deep playoff run and reach Super Bowl LX, Dobbins could potentially rejoin the team. A return as early as the AFC Championship Game is not completely off the table if Denver manages to defeat the Bills in the Divisional Round.

Recently, Broncos head coach Sean Payton provided an update on two of Bo Nix’s key teammates, including Dobbins. His return would be a major boost to Denver’s hopes of securing a fourth Super Bowl title in franchise history.

The Broncos found a reliable replacement for Dobbins

Following Dobbins’ injury, the Broncos named RJ Harvey as their starting running back. The rookie, selected 60th overall in the 2026 NFL Draft, seized the opportunity to showcase his skill set.

Harvey has become a key weapon for Nix since Week 10. Not only has he proven to be effective on the ground, but his ability as a receiver has also stood out, giving Denver a versatile, dual-threat option the offense badly needed after losing Dobbins.

In Week 10, Dobbins suffered a foot injury following a hip-drop tackle against the Raiders. Initially, the expectation was that he would miss the remainder of the season. However, head coach Sean Payton has now offered an encouraging update that suggests a return may still be in play.

“It wouldn’t be soon, but that has a chance to happen,” Payton said on Dobbins, via Parker Gabriel of The Denver Post. It seems like Dobbins would be back for playoffs, which is a really good sign for Denver.

Denver’s injury list keeps growing, but the team keeps winning

In addition to Dobbins, the Broncos have several key players dealing with injuries. Yet, despite the setbacks, Denver has managed to maintain its momentum and strengthen its position in the AFC West.

Pat Surtain II (pectoral), Jonah Elliss (hamstring), and Alex Singleton (recovering from testicular cancer) are among the notable names sidelined. Fortunately for Denver, all three have resumed practice and appear to be on track for a return in the near future.

Even with multiple top contributors injured, the Broncos sit atop the AFC West with an impressive 9-2 record. Coming out of their bye week, they will face the Washington Commanders in Week 12 — a crucial matchup as Denver looks to continue its push for the No. 1 seed in the AFC.

The Denver Broncos have suffered a big setback, as J.K. Dobbins is set to miss the rest of the 2025 NFL season. He will undergo ankle surgery, and the timeline projects he will be out for several months.

While there is still a possibility he could return if the Broncos make a deep playoff run, as of today he is expected to be sidelined for the remainder of the campaign. Now, the running back has shared his first message after receiving the tough news.

J.K. Dobbins opens up on potentially missing the rest of the 2025 NFL season

The Broncos just lost their starting running back, and things have become even more complicated for Denver in their playoff push.

In Week 10, Dobbins suffered a hip-drop tackle against the Raiders. After several tests, doctors determined he needed surgery to repair the damage—likely ending his season, though he believes otherwise.

Following the announcement of his injury, J.K. Dobbins took to social media to warn the NFL that he will return and should not be counted out.

“For those who will count me out again… Thank you,” Dobbins wrote on X. “For those who are with me on this ride… stick with me! You will love what God has planned next.”

According to reports, Dobbins could return in the playoffs if the Broncos make a long run. After relying heavily on him for several weeks, the player’s hopes of playing again this season now depend on how far his team goes.

Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero reported that running back J.K. Dobbins will undergo season-ending foot surgery. Dobbins sustained the injury on a hip-drop tackle during the Broncos win against the Raiders in Week 10.

Dobbins was having an outstanding season with the Broncos so far. He is set to become a free agent next year, but Denver still reportedly wants him to stay despite this injury.

The offense needed Dobbins, but not all hope is lost

J.K. Dobbins was fifth in the league in rushing yards with 772. He found a great place to showcase his skills, but now his season is over.

Dobbins has struggled with injuries his entire career. Now, the Broncos front office has a tough decision to make, as the running back will become a free agent next year and Denver reportedly wanted to offer him a new contract by the end of the season.

While the Broncos figure that issue out, head coach Sean Payton has another problem to solve. Now without his RB1, Payton will need to rely on a rookie as his replacement.

RJ Harvey is now listed as RB1 in the Broncos’ depth chart. He was a second-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, and Denver has a lot of faith in him to step up as Dobbins’ replacement.

The former UCF standout has not had a great season, but with Dobbins out he could prove his worth. After 10 games, Harvey has had 50 carries for 214 yards and two touchdowns. However, he is not just a running back.

Harvey has been a key player for Bo Nix through the air. The rookie has had 25 receptions for 175 yards and four touchdowns, proving that he can be a dual-threat whose numbers can only improve now as the starter.

Broncos running back depth chart with J.K. Dobbins out

As mentioned, RJ Harvey will step up as the starting running back with J.K. Dobbins out. Even though he is a solid replacement, the depth at the position now raises questions.

Behind Harvey is Tyler Badie, who has only had 2 carries for 9 yards this year. Jaleel McLaughlin is listed as RB3, with only one attempt this season and no yards gained.

Week 10 began with a victory for the Broncos. Unfortunately, Denver failed to dominate the Raiders as many had expected, with an offensive performance that fell short of fans’ expectations.

Despite the win, fans at Empower Field repeatedly booed the offense throughout the game. Both Bo Nix and JK Dobbins have since sent a clear message to those who were unhappy with the team’s performance.

Bo Nix accepts Broncos fans’ criticism after win over Raiders

Even while playing at home, the Broncos felt more like visitors on Thursday Night Football. Denver’s offense continued to struggle and had to rely heavily on its defense to secure the victory over Las Vegas.

Every time the Broncos’ offense stalled, fans at Empower Field voiced their frustration with loud boos. Bo Nix has now addressed the matter, acknowledging the fans’ disappointment and saying he understands their frustration.

“I’ve been booed before, and I’ll be booed again,” quarterback Bo Nix told reporters after the game. “Not going to be the last time. It’s obviously unfortunate. You don’t want your own fans booing you, but it’s part of it.”

J.K. Dobbins believes the offense can — and must — improve

Broncos running back J.K. Dobbins shares the fans’ frustration. He admitted that the offense hasn’t met expectations and understands the impatience surrounding the unit. However, Dobbins believes the group has the talent and determination to improve in the coming weeks.

“I mean, they should [boo]. They should,” JK Dobbins said after the game. “We’re not very good at times. They should be mad because we have so much talent. We’ve got to figure it out … and we will.”

J.K. Dobbins joined the team in the last offseason and has quickly established himself as one of the quarterback’s main rushing partners. Coming from the Chargers, the explosive running back has somehow found his place in the league and intends to stay there for a long time.

“Far as extension and stuff like that, that doesn’t cross my mind,” Dobbins said Thursday, via Luca Evans of the Denver Post. “But, me just wanting to be here in Denver — yes. I hope to end my career here and be here for the rest of my time in the NFL.”

Upon arriving in Mile High, Dobbins signed only a one-year deal, so his stay beyond this season isn’t guaranteed. However, the former Ohio State star knows he still has plenty to offer wearing orange and blue.

“I want to be in Denver,” Dobbins also added. “I love it. I love the fanbase. I think the fanbase and I have a connection. Love my teammates. And I also love Sean Payton. I love the owners.”

A lethal duo in the AFC West

The Denver Broncos’ offense is thriving this season, largely thanks to the explosive one-two punch delivered by quarterback Bo Nix and running back J.K. Dobbins. The duo has formed a dynamic partnership that perfectly executes Sean Payton’s vision.

Through eight games, Nix has been highly efficient, completing 62.8% of his passes for 1,803 yards and 15 touchdowns against just 5 interceptions, while also adding 3 rushing touchdowns of his own.

This balanced threat opens the field for Dobbins, who is currently third in the NFL in rushing, racking up 634 yards on the ground with a blistering 5.3 yards per carry average and 4 touchdowns. This lethal combination of an effective passing attack paired with Dobbins’ elite rushing production has been the engine behind the Broncos’ impressive 6-2 start.

Last year, the Broncos made one of the best decisions in recent draft history. With the No. 12 overall pick, the AFC West club selected Bo Nix, one of the top quarterback prospects in his class.

The standout quarterback from Oregon led the Broncos to their first playoff appearance in 10 years. While they didn’t go far, it was a solid first step in rebuilding the three-time Super Bowl-winning franchise.

Bo Nix’s new running back warns the entire NFL about the 2025 Broncos

There is a great deal of hope riding on Bo Nix. The quarterback had a remarkable rookie season, leaving many fans excited about what’s ahead for the team.

Despite a strong 2024 season, Denver’s front office recognized that the roster still needed improvement. As a result, they’ve brought in several new players to support Nix in the upcoming campaign.

On Wednesday, the Broncos confirmed the addition of a new weapon to Nix’s offense. J.K. Dobbins has joined Sean Payton’s squad after a solid season with the Los Angeles Chargers.

Dobbins began his career with the Baltimore Ravens and, despite battling injuries, showed flashes of his potential. Now, he believes Denver is the perfect place for him to shine and compete for a championship.

“I always have a chip on my shoulder, but that was a little weird,” Dobbins said on Wednesday. “It’s a business. It’s for my agent to handle. Good luck to [the Chargers]. I’m a Bronco now. They have to see me twice a year. That’s my thoughts on it.

“I’m going to have the chip on my shoulder, of course, but I’m here. I’m worried about winning more than just beating — I don’t want to just beat the Chargers. I want to go on and I want to get a ring. I’ve been in the playoffs every year I’ve played, so I’m tired of losing in them. That’s my goal. Bring a Super Bowl to the city and just be a blessing to the community, as well.”

What is J.K. Dobbins’ contract with the Broncos?

J.K. Dobbins was a second-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, selected 55th overall by the Ravens. He spent four seasons in Baltimore before playing the 2024 season with the Chargers.

As a free agent, Dobbins signed a one-year, $2.75 million deal with the Broncos. He is expected to compete with R.J. Harvey for the starting running back role.

Following several costly mistakes in their matchup against Houston, the Chargers‘ front office is evaluating the performance of several players. Despite finishing the regular season with an impressive 11-6 record, fans were left expecting a stronger showing in the playoffs, only to face disappointment against the Texans.

However, Dobbins addressed his future with the team when speaking to the media after the tough loss and ahead of his impending free agency. “I love it here. The Bolt Fam has welcomed me with open arms,” Dobbins said. “They love me even when others counted me out.”

Dobbins continued, “I would love to be here. Only God knows what the future holds, but I would love to stay.” With this statement, Chargers fans can take some solace in knowing their star running back hopes to remain with the team in the next NFL season, barring unforeseen changes.

Dobbins’ teammate reflects on disappointing performance

Reflecting on the Chargers’ matchup against the Texans, quarterback Justin Herbert shared candid thoughts about his performance and its impact on the team’s outcome.

“I let the team down. You cannot turn the ball over like that and expect to win,” Herbert admitted. “I just have to be better. It’s on me to protect the ball and improve in those situations. I was aggressive downfield, but I’ve got to do a better job of getting the ball out, throwing it away, or placing it better. That’s on me.“

Head coach Harbaugh on the Texans’ dominance

Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh also weighed in on the loss to Houston, offering a balanced perspective. While critical of his team’s performance, Harbaugh acknowledged the Texans’ impressive execution.

“They were the better team today—all respect to them,” Harbaugh said. “Not being the better team is on me, and I’m accountable for that. Congratulations to DeMeco Ryans and the Texans for an excellent game.” When asked about Herbert’s performance, Harbaugh responded with high praise: “He’s a complete beast, like he always is.”