The Denver Broncos face a crucial decision in the 2026 NFL offseason regarding their running back situation. With the potential to bring in a game-changer like Breece Hall or Travis Etienne, the temptation is real. However, the Broncos also need to bolster their receiving corps to support quarterback Bo Nix, making the running back decision even more complex.
Enter J.K. Dobbins.
He showed flashes of being a top-10 running back early in the 2025 season. The catch?
His struggle with injuries has been a recurring theme since he was drafted in 2020, preventing him from completing a full season. Yet, there's a compelling case for Denver to re-sign him soon, if only to keep him away from the Kansas City Chiefs.
The Broncos capitalized on a rare down year for the Chiefs, cruising through the AFC regular season. But with Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes in Kansas City, underestimating them is risky.
Adding a talent like Dobbins could rejuvenate the Chiefs' rushing attack, which faltered in 2025. Denver can't afford to let that happen.
While re-signing Dobbins solely to thwart the Chiefs isn't the primary goal, it's a strategic move worth considering. Dobbins elevates the Broncos' backfield, and his presence could be part of a formidable trio alongside R.J. Harvey and a savvy veteran like Tyler Allgeier or a promising rookie such as Arkansas' Mike Washington Jr.
This approach not only reduces Dobbins' workload, potentially keeping him healthier, but also provides Denver with a robust contingency plan. And let's face it, having a reliable ground game during a snowy January clash is invaluable.
In essence, bringing Dobbins back serves a dual purpose: it strengthens the Broncos while preventing him from bolstering the Chiefs. That's a win-win scenario that Denver should seriously consider in free agency.