J.K. Dobbins's first season in Denver is ending prematurely.
The Broncos running back will require season-ending surgery for his foot injury, NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero reported Saturday, per sources.
Dobbins, who has a ligament tear in his foot, sought opinions from several experts before ultimately deciding on surgery, per Rapoport and Pelissero.
The Broncos later officially placed Dobbins on injured reserve.
Initially, there was some hope for a Dobbins return this season with what Rapoport and Pelissero described as a significant injury. Instead, he will be headed to IR with a slight possibility of him returning.
Pelissero reported that doctors believe Dobbins has a chance at returning if the Broncos make Super Bowl LX on Feb. 8.
Dobbins leads the first-place Broncos with 153 carries, 772 rushing yards (fifth in NFL) and four rushing touchdowns. By the midway point of the 2025 season, it was already apparent that the veteran RB had grown comfortable in Denver following his arrival as a free agent this past offseason.
Denver will turn to a young corps of rushers in Dobbins' absence. Second-round pick RJ Harvey, who's accrued 214 rushing yards and two TDs off 50 carries this season, is poised to see a bigger a role. The rookie has been more utilized in passing situations, generating 25 receptions for 175 yards and four TDs. Third-year RBs Tyler Badie and Jaleel McLaughlin are also in line for more playing time.
It's a crushing blow for Dobbins, who's battled multiple significant injuries throughout his five-season career. Prior to 2025, Dobbins missed 43 games over four regular seasons, including all of the 2021 campaign.
Dobbins, 26, is slated to be a free agent in 2026.
