The Los Angeles Chargers placed an unrestricted free agent tender on J.K. Dobbins in April, creating an unconventional offseason for the running back.
After receiving that tender, Dobbins had until training camp to strike a deal with another club. If he did not reach an agreement before July 22, the Chargers would have had exclusive negotiating rights with Dobbins, and his tender was only worth $1.64 million.
After signing a one-year deal with a division rival, Dobbins has an opportunity to earn up to $5.25 million with the Denver Broncos this fall. Dobbins is now set to return to L.A. in Week 3, and then face his old team again when the Broncos host the Chargers in Week 18 (view the full schedule).
Will he have a chip on his shoulder going up against his old club?
“I always have a chip on my shoulder, but that was a little weird,” Dobbins said after his first practice in Denver. “It’s a business. It’s for my agent to handle. Good luck to [the Chargers]. I’m a Bronco now. They have to see me twice a year. That’s my thoughts on it. I’m going to have the chip on my shoulder, of course, but I’m here.
“I’m worried about winning more than just beating — I don’t want to just beat the Chargers. I want to go on and I want to get a ring. I’ve been in the playoffs every year I’ve played, so I’m tired of losing in them. That’s my goal. Bring a Super Bowl to the city and just be a blessing to the community, as well.”
Dobbins totaled 1,058 yards from scrimmage and scored 13 touchdowns in L.A. last season. He will now join rookie RJ Harvey in Denver’s backfield. Dobbins is entering his sixth season in the NFL.
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