J.K. Dobbins

Dobbins sustained a significant ligament issue in his foot, reported as a Lisfranc injury (a sprain or fracture to the midfoot area). This injury type has unpredictable recovery and high re-injury risk in RBs.

RJ Harvey has arguably made the biggest contributions among Broncos' 2025 draft picks, and after JK Dobbins was lost to injury, had to take on a bigger role. Harvey was selected as the running back for the 2025 All-Rookie squad. Harvey will be the Broncos' RB1 in 2026 regardless of Dobbins' status.

RJ Harvey (dynasty value vs. Dobbins') outperformed expectations as the starter after Week 10, is younger, dual-threat, and is already the more valued dynasty asset in this backfield — making him the clear long-term successor regardless of Dobbins' health.

Despite leading the room, snap share sits at ~52% with low target involvement; Harvey absorbs passing-down/explosive work and now Coleman adds three-down depth, capping weekly ceiling at RB2/flex.

Sean Payton publicly called re-signing Dobbins a top offseason priority; the coaching staff's stated commitment to him provides a near-term role floor that a less entrenched back would not have.

With the 2026 contract signed and depth chart set, Dobbins enters camp as the designated early-down starter. His carry share was trending UP to 67% before the injury, suggesting he was earning an expanded role before the Lisfranc ended his season.

Plays in an ascending Bo Nix–led Denver offense with Waddle/Sutton drawing coverage; positive game scripts on a contending team support efficient rushing volume and TD upside.

Dobbins hopes to re-sign with the Broncos this offseason. The Broncos could have mutual interest in keeping Dobbins around, as he was efficient and would complement RJ Harvey, who established himself as a strong pass catcher out of the backfield in his rookie campaign. Payton familiarity may support return-to-Broncos scenario, though as change-of-pace role.

Denver has publicly confirmed Dobbins is fully recovered from his 2025 foot surgery, which at minimum removes the carry-in health uncertainty that suppressed his dynasty value heading into the offseason.