What is the Timeline on J.K. Dobbins Injury? Broncos' Payton Gives Update on Return

Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton left the door open for running back J.K. Dobbins to return at some point in the 2025 NFL season.

"It wouldn't be soon, but that has a chance to happen," he told reporters Wednesday.

Dobbins underwent foot surgery earlier this month, and initial reports cast doubt on his status for the remainder of the campaign. At the very least, his injured reserve designation will require him to sit out until a Week 16 matchup with the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Broncos have two more games in the regular season after that.

The 26-year-old has performed well in the Mile High City, running for 772 yards and four touchdowns. His 77.2 yards per game are a career high.

But Injuries have been an all too common theme for Dobbins, who has logged 47 total appearances since entering the NFL in 2020.

Denver missed his presence in the backfield in a 22-19 win over the Kansas City Chiefs. RJ Harvey started in his place and went for just 30 yards on 11 carries.

▶️ Full Chiefs-Broncos Recap

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For now, the Broncos will hope Harvey takes more advantage of the opportunity presented to him. Jaleel McLaughlin's workload is going to increase as the backup, too.

Should Dobbins get the green light between now and the postseason, it will be a welcome surprise.