Broncos RB J.K. Dobbins Out for Season After Joining Injured Reserve

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP) — Denver Broncos running back J.K. Dobbins is headed to injured reserve and will require surgery on his left foot, likely ending his season. The team announced the news on Saturday.

Dobbins suffered the injury during a game against the Las Vegas Raiders last week when he was tackled by defensive end Tyree Wilson. Initially, Dobbins returned to the game and attempted six more carries, finishing with 77 yards on 18 attempts, contributing to the Broncos’ seventh straight win.

Despite initially downplaying his injury, Dobbins expressed concerns over the tackle style that led to his injury and sought a second medical opinion, which confirmed its seriousness. He ranked third in the NFL with 774 rushing yards this season, averaging five yards per carry.

Rookie R.J. Harvey is expected to step into the leading running back role for the Broncos (8-2) as they prepare to face the Kansas City Chiefs (5-4) on Sunday. Harvey has amassed 214 rushing yards this season and has made significant contributions in the passing game, scoring four touchdowns.

“The game has slowed down a lot for me,” Harvey said in a recent interview. “I definitely feel more comfortable.” He added that he is eager to showcase his abilities on Sunday.

Broncos offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi praised Harvey’s growth, noting that increased playing time will likely boost his production. “He’s just a guy that’s growing right before our eyes,” Lombardi said.

However, the Broncos will be missing several key players in addition to Dobbins, including star cornerback Pat Surtain II and leading tackler Alex Singleton, both ruled out for the game against Kansas City.