J.K. Dobbins

This is the fifth time in six seasons that the promising back lands on the injured reserve. Dobbins' latest setback comes after previous campaigns derailed by a torn ACL (2021), a separate knee procedure (2022), and a torn Achilles tendon (2023). Pattern of durability dysfunction is now severe.

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 4393 vs. Dobbins' 2783) 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.

RB age 27 — entering/past typical value cliff

Dobbins, 26, is slated to be a free agent in 2026. Coming off foot surgery in an injury-prone career, his market value will be severely depressed. Multiple teams may avoid him entirely.

Dobbins' two-year, $16M re-signing is structured effectively as a one-year deal with a team option; Denver can move on cheaply if he misses significant time again in 2026, creating a realistic cut scenario heading into 2027.

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.

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.

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.

Doctors believe Dobbins has a chance at returning if the Broncos make Super Bowl LX on Feb. 8. If Broncos advance and Dobbins returns, short-term fantasy upside exists but minimal dynasty value recovery.