Chargers’ Dobbins Active for Playoff Opener Despite Ankle Injury

Despite battling an ankle injury, Los Angeles Chargers running back J.K. Dobbins is officially active for Saturday’s Wild Card playoff game against the Houston Texans. Dobbins, who was limited in practice all week, received a questionable designation but will take the field as the Chargers aim for their first playoff victory since 2018.

Dobbins, who joined the Chargers this season after four injury-plagued years with the Baltimore Ravens, has been a key contributor to the team’s ground game. He led the Chargers with a career-high 905 rushing yards and nine touchdowns this season. His presence has been crucial, as the team averaged 121.8 rushing yards per game with him in the lineup, compared to just 74.75 yards during the four games he missed midseason due to a hamstring injury.

“Having Dobbins good to go is a huge boost for us,” said Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh. “He brings toughness and consistency to our offense, and we’ll need that against a strong Texans defense.”

The Chargers will also rely on wide receiver Quentin Johnston, who is coming off a career-best performance in Week 18 with 13 catches for 186 yards. Johnston, listed as questionable with a thigh injury and illness, is expected to play. His emergence as a top target for quarterback Justin Herbert has been a bright spot for the Chargers’ offense this season.

With Dobbins and Johnston active, the Chargers hope to overcome their recent playoff struggles and advance in the postseason. The game kicks off at 4:30 PM ET at NRG Stadium in Houston.