Former Chargers RB J.K. Dobbins Signs with Broncos, Will Face L.A. Twice in 2025
The Los Angeles Chargers will see a familiar face across the line of scrimmage twice during the 2025 season, as former starting running back J.K. Dobbins has officially signed a one-year, $5.25 million contract with the Denver Broncos. The move reunites Dobbins with the AFC West but positions him on the opposite side of one of the league’s most competitive divisions.
Dobbins, now 26, had a strong campaign for the Chargers in 2024 despite missing four games due to injury. In his 13 appearances, he posted a career-best 905 rushing yards and nine touchdowns, proving to be a key contributor when healthy. His physical running style and ability to find the end zone made him a valuable asset to the Chargers’ offense, even though durability continued to be a lingering concern.
A New Chapter in Denver’s Backfield
Dobbins will now enter a crowded but promising backfield in Denver, joining a young group that includes 2025 fourth-round draft pick RJ Harvey from UCF, as well as emerging backs Audric Estime and Jaleel McLaughlin. The Broncos are expected to utilize a committee approach to managing their rushing attack, which could benefit Dobbins by reducing his workload and helping preserve his health over the course of the season.
With Denver leaning into a youth-driven offense and Head Coach Sean Payton favoring rotational usage among running backs, Dobbins’ experience and efficiency in limited snaps could make him a strong veteran presence and red zone threat.
Compensatory Pick Looms for Chargers
The Chargers may not walk away empty-handed from Dobbins’ departure. Since the team placed an unrestricted free agent (UFA) tender on him earlier in the offseason, they now qualify to receive a compensatory draft pick in 2026 for losing a qualifying free agent. The value of the pick will depend on several factors, including Dobbins’ performance and salary with the Broncos.
Losing Dobbins creates both a roster gap and an opportunity in L.A.’s backfield. The Chargers are expected to lean more heavily on 2023 rookie standout Isaiah Spiller, as well as newly acquired depth from free agency or the draft.
Looking Ahead to Division Matchups
With Dobbins set to face his former team twice this season in high-stakes AFC West battles, those matchups are sure to carry extra intensity. Both organizations have made significant offseason moves, and Dobbins will no doubt be motivated to show the Chargers what they let go. For the Chargers, keeping him in check will be crucial to securing divisional wins—and potentially, postseason positioning.
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