J.K. Dobbins isn’t saying much — but what he’s not saying might be even louder.
The former Los Angeles Chargers running back is now with the Denver Broncos, after signing a one-year, $5.25 million deal, and though he’s taking the high road publicly, it’s clear there’s some lingering resentment after a puzzling offseason. Dobbins, who led the team with 1,058 yards from scrimmage and nine touchdowns in 2024, remained unsigned until June despite his strong performance.
According to Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer, the Chargers actually presented Dobbins with a “pretty decent offer” in free agency. However, for reasons that have not been made public, Dobbins rejected the offer. Ultimately, they moved on, signing Najee Harris and drafting Omarion Hampton in the first round — both clear signs Dobbins wasn’t in their long-term plans.
JK Dobbins Has A Chip On His Shoulder — And The Los Angeles Chargers Put It There
“They have to see me twice a year,” Dobbins said Wednesday at Broncos minicamp. “That’s my thoughts on it. I’m going to have a chip on my shoulder, of course… but I’m here now.”
Now 26 and healthy, Dobbins has signed a one-year, incentive-laden deal with Denver, stepping into a backfield committee that includes rookie RJ Harvey. While the Broncos may not have promised him feature-back status, they’ve given him something the Chargers didn’t: a real shot to prove himself — and perhaps a little fuel.
The irony? Dobbins was everything the Chargers could’ve asked for in 2024: productive, consistent, and resilient. Yet after a knee injury late in the season, the team chose to let him walk — despite placing a UFA tender on him to retain exclusive negotiating rights through July.
Dobbins, who said he “just let it all play out,” is now focused on more than revenge. “I don’t want to just beat the Chargers.” “I want to bring a Super Bowl to this city,” he said. “I’m tired of losing in the playoffs.”
Still, don’t be surprised if the dates with Los Angeles are circled in red.
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