J.K. Dobbins Signs One-Year Deal with Denver Broncos: What Does This Mean for Fantasy Football?

 J.K. Dobbins, the former Baltimore Ravens running back, has signed a one-year deal with the Denver Broncos, according to multiple reports. This move has fantasy football managers and NFL fans alike buzzing with questions about what this means for his role in Denver’s backfield and how it affects his fantasy value going into the 2025 season.

Dobbins, who was previously a key figure in Baltimore’s running game, enters the Broncos’ system with high expectations. With the Denver offense continuing to evolve under head coach Sean Payton, this signing signals a strong commitment to solidifying the team’s ground game.

Dobbins’ new deal, which is reportedly worth up to $4 million with incentives, gives him a chance to prove his value and help anchor the Broncos’ rushing attack. Last season with Baltimore, Dobbins showed flashes of his explosive talent, despite dealing with injuries in the past few years. Now, he has an opportunity to shine as part of a revamped Broncos squad aiming to improve its offense in 2025.

For fantasy football managers, Dobbins’ move to Denver is intriguing. He joins a crowded backfield that includes Javonte Williams, but given Dobbins’ proven track record and ability to break off long runs, he could very well earn significant carries and become a key contributor in Sean Payton’s offensive scheme. While the Broncos still have Williams as a lead back, Dobbins could form a dynamic 1-2 punch with him, potentially leading to increased goal-line opportunities and a consistent presence in Denver’s game plan. Dobbins’ ability to stay healthy will be critical to his fantasy value, but if he stays on track, he could have solid RB2 or flex value, especially in PPR formats.

With Dobbins in the fold, the Broncos now have multiple options in the backfield to complement Russell Wilson’s passing game. Dobbins has shown flashes of brilliance during his time in Baltimore, particularly during the 2021 season when he averaged 6.0 yards per carry. However, injury concerns and limited opportunities have held him back from becoming a consistent feature back.

The addition of Dobbins provides Denver with a versatile, dynamic runner who can contribute in both the rushing and receiving game. His presence should help take some pressure off Williams, potentially allowing him to focus on his strengths in the open field, while Dobbins handles more inside runs and short-yardage situations. While Dobbins has shown flashes of brilliance, his career has been marred by injury issues. After tearing his ACL in 2021 and missing significant time, Dobbins has struggled to regain the full form that made him a standout rookie. However, after a solid 2024 season with Baltimore, where he showed glimpses of his previous self, this one-year deal with Denver could be a pivotal opportunity for him to prove that he can remain healthy and effective for a full season.

Looking ahead to fantasy drafts, Dobbins could be a value pick in the later rounds, especially if he secures a significant role in Denver’s offense. If he stays healthy, he has the potential to be a high-end RB2 or even a flex option in deeper leagues. Fantasy managers will need to monitor the Broncos’ depth chart and preseason performance to gauge how the team plans to use him in their offensive schemes.