Denver Broncos running back J.K. Dobbins has been placed on injured reserve due to a foot injury that is likely season-ending, sources confirmed on Saturday. The move comes after Dobbins suffered the injury in last week’s game against the Las Vegas Raiders, dealing a significant blow to the Broncos’ playoff aspirations.
Dobbins sustained the injury in the third quarter of the Broncos’ 10-7 victory over the Raiders, on what he described as an illegal hip-drop tackle. Initially, he believed the injury was minor and even returned to the field to help secure the win, but further medical evaluation revealed a serious foot issue. The team announced the IR placement on November 15, with sources indicating that surgery has already been performed, and his season is effectively over unless Denver reaches the Super Bowl.
Before the injury, Dobbins was a standout performer for the Broncos, rushing for 772 yards on 5.05 yards per carry through 10 games. His 21 runs of 10 yards or more ranked fifth in the NFL, highlighting his explosiveness and importance to an offense that has struggled with consistency. Dobbins was also valued for his reliability in pass protection, often being the preferred choice in critical situations.
The loss of Dobbins is a major setback for the Broncos, who hold an 8-2 record and are in the thick of the AFC West race. As the team’s leading rusher, his absence will test the depth of a running back room that must now step up without its top weapon. This comes at a pivotal moment, with a key divisional matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday, where Denver’s offense will need to find new ways to produce.
Rookie running back RJ Harvey is poised to take over as the primary ball carrier, offering a chance for the second-round pick to showcase his talents on a national stage. Harvey has shown promise with 214 rushing yards and 25 receptions this season, including a 50-yard run in Week 1. The Broncos will also turn to Jaleel McLaughlin and Tyler Badie to share the workload, with McLaughlin expected to see increased action after being mostly inactive this year.
Dobbins’ injury adds to a growing list of health concerns for the Broncos, who are also without linebacker Alex Singleton and cornerback Pat Surtain II for the Chiefs game. The team’s injury report is more extensive than usual, raising questions about how they will maintain their competitive edge. Despite these challenges, wide receiver Marvin Mims Jr. is set to return from a concussion, providing a boost to the receiving corps.
The timing is particularly unfortunate for Dobbins, who is playing on a one-year contract and set to become a free agent. Sources indicate that the Broncos are interested in re-signing him for the 2026 season, reflecting his positive impact both on and off the field. His injury not only affects his immediate future but also could influence contract negotiations, depending on his recovery timeline.
Moving forward, the Broncos must adapt quickly to remain in playoff contention, with Harvey’s development and the supporting cast’s performance being critical. The team may explore additional roster moves to bolster depth, but for now, the focus is on overcoming this adversity and continuing their push for a Super Bowl berth.
