J.K. Dobbins Sends Clear Message on His Free Agency Decision originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The Denver Broncos are entering the 2025 NFL season with a reinforced roster and heightened expectations. After a postseason appearance in 2024, general manager George Payton signed two former San Francisco 49ers, linebacker Dre Greenlaw and safety Talanoa Hufanga, to three-year deals worth $35 million and $39 million, respectively.
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Both former 49ers bring Pro Bowl credentials and playoff experience to a defense that already ranked third in points per game allowed (18.3) last season.
With second-year quarterback Bo Nix, 25, looking to build on a successful rookie campaign, Denver has positioned itself as a team to watch in the AFC.
But the most notable addition came later in free agency — one that could reshape the Broncos’ offensive identity.
J.K. Dobbins runs the ball against the New Orleans Saints.Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
That move was the signing of 26-year-old running back J.K. Dobbins, who joins Denver after a bounce-back season with the Los Angeles Chargers.
“I felt like it was the best fit for me,” Dobbins said. “Defense is really good, like super good. Quarterback’s amazing. I like the RB room. O-line is amazing as well. So, it was a no-brainer… I also heard that it’s a good fan base. So that’s why I’m here.”
A former Ohio State star and 2020 second-round pick, he’s totaled 2,252 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns across 37 career games, averaging an impressive 5.2 yards per carry.
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Dobbins rushed for 905 yards and nine touchdowns in 2024, ranking 22nd and 14th in the league, respectively. It marked a full-circle return after an Achilles tear in 2023, a setback that had cast doubt on his long-term explosiveness.
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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 11, 2025, where it first appeared.