The Denver Broncos sign RB J.K. Dobbins in June 2025, pairing him with R.J. Harvey to boost Sean Payton's offense after his big comeback season. Learn more!
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
Just as mandatory minicamp kicked off, the Denver Broncos made a major splash, addressing a key offensive need by signing running back J.K. Dobbins to a one-year deal. The former division rival, fresh off a spectacular comeback season with the Chargers, brings a potent blend of power and experience to a young running back room, signaling a clear intent to revitalize the ground game in 2025.
Yeah, he's a baller. He was one of the running backs that had the better rushing games against us last year. So, I'm super excited for him to be here.
The Denver Broncos have officially added a proven workhorse to their stable. The team signed J.K. Dobbins to a one-year contract worth up to $5.25 million, with $2.75 million guaranteed. After a resurgent 2024 campaign that saw him rush for 905 yards and nine touchdowns, earning him runner-up for Comeback Player of the Year, Dobbins now pairs with dynamic rookie second-rounder R.J. Harvey. This move creates a formidable 1-2 punch that could define the identity of Sean Payton's offense this season.
While Head Coach Sean Payton played it cool with the media, offering a coy 'I think we're close' when asked about the signing, the excitement inside the locker room was palpable. Safety Brandon Jones, who has history with Dobbins dating back to their high school and college days, couldn't hide his enthusiasm. 'He's a good back, especially when healthy,' Jones said. 'I'm very familiar with him... he's a baller.' Having a respected defender who faced Dobbins last year endorse the move so strongly speaks volumes about the impact the new running back is expected to have.
Dobbins isn't just here to carry the ball; he's expected to fill a critical void. With Javonte Williams' departure to Dallas in free agency, the Broncos lost their best pass-protecting back. Dobbins is slated to take on significant third-down duties, a crucial role in keeping the quarterback upright. Of course, a running back is only as good as his blocking. Veteran tackle Garett Bolles acknowledged this, emphasizing that it's on the offensive line to bring the 'demeanor and tenacity' needed to open holes and elevate the entire run game. The pressure is now on the big men up front to pave the way for their new star.
The Broncos' backfield just went from a question mark to an exclamation point. The signing of J.K. Dobbins injects proven talent and a fascinating dynamic into the offense. All eyes now turn to training camp to see how the partnership with rookie R.J. Harvey develops, how the crowded running back room shakes out, and if the offensive line can rise to the occasion. For the first time in a while, there's a genuine buzz around the Broncos' running game.
