The Denver Broncos received disappointing news this week: J.K. Dobbins, their starting running back, is expected to be out for an extended period of time due to a serious foot injury.  According to reports, the team is considering placing him on injured reserve, which would require him to miss at least four games.

The Injury and Its Implications

Dobbins sustained the injury in the Broncos’ Week 10 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders.  Despite the pain, he continued to play, demonstrating his toughness — but it has finally caught up with him. 

According to multiple sources, the injury is serious enough that he will not play in the upcoming game against the Kansas City Chiefs, and the team is looking into all treatment options.    The possibility of being placed on injured reserve (IR) looms large, implying at least a month of recovery—possibly longer, depending on how things go.

A Tough Blow to Both Dobbins and the Broncos

Dobbins has been a key component of Denver’s early season success.  Up until this point in 2025, he had rushed for 772 yards and four touchdowns in ten games.    That level of production made him essential to the Broncos’ offensive strategy, and losing him now is a significant loss.

To make matters worse, Dobbins has suffered from injuries throughout his career, missing significant time with the Ravens (including a season-ending ACL tear) and the Chargers.    Unfortunately, the narrative appears to be repeating itself.

Who Steps Up Now?

With Dobbins’ status uncertain, the Broncos are turning to younger players.  R.J. Harvey, the rookie running back, is poised to play a much larger role.    So far this season, Harvey has demonstrated playmaking ability and versatility, but this will be his most difficult test yet.

In addition to Harvey, Denver’s depth chart includes Jaleel McLaughlin and Tyler Badie.  McLaughlin, who has been largely underutilized this season, could see more carries, while Badie may handle more third-down and passing-down responsibilities. 

Coach Sean Payton has expressed confidence in the young runners, while acknowledging how difficult it is to lose a leader like Dobbins.

What This Means for Denver’s Playoff Hopes

The Broncos are 8-2, but Dobbins’ injury could change everything.  Denver’s ground game becomes more uncertain without their top back, putting the burden on inexperienced players.

If placed on injured reserve, Dobbins would miss some important games, including those against the Commanders, Raiders, and Packers.   This could weaken their playoff push, unless their backups step up.

The Bigger Picture for Dobbins

The running back has faced career uncertainty before.  He signed a one-year, $5.25 million contract with Denver this offseason, giving him a chance to show he can stay healthy and productive. 

Now, with a foot injury threatening to derail his momentum, Dobbins may have to go through another “prove-it” stretch.   For a player who has battled back from multiple serious injuries, this could be his most difficult test yet.

Final Thoughts

The Broncos’ loss of J.K. Dobbins is more than just a roster shuffle; it’s a watershed moment.  He has been a spark plug for their offense, and his absence may force Denver to rely heavily on younger, less experienced backs.  Whether R.J. Harvey or another reserve can fill Dobbins’ role will have a significant impact on the rest of the season.

Dobbins finds the journey both frustrating and familiar.  But if his history teaches us anything, it’s that he won’t give up without a fight.