The Denver Broncos face a significant challenge at running back as the 2026 free agency period approaches, centered on the possible departure of veteran J.K. Dobbins. After signing a one-year, $2.065 million contract for the 2025 season, Dobbins is expected to test the market, with projections indicating a potential move to the Atlanta Falcons.
This situation contrasts sharply with the Broncos’ running back woes in 2025, when they struggled with a lack of reliable talent. Now, the concern is about retaining their top back as some players may seek new opportunities elsewhere.
Falcons Viewed as Likely Destination Amid Roster Changes
Bleacher Report suggests that Dobbins could join the Atlanta Falcons, who have experienced instability with four head coaches in six years and have not recorded a winning season since 2017. Atlanta aims to bolster their backfield, potentially positioning Dobbins as a secondary option.
Dobbins could fill the No. 2 spot in the Atlanta Falcons’ backfield if they lose Tyler Allgeier and/or are looking for a ball-carrier to complement Bijan Robinson,
wrote Moe Moton from Bleacher Report.
Robinson has finished in the top three leaguewide in touches in back-to-back seasons. The Falcons will need someone to spell him if Allgeier signs elsewhere in free agency. As an undrafted rookie, Nathan Carter is still unproven with only nine carries for 60 yards. Dobbins should endure less wear and tear playing behind Robinson, which could increase his chances of playing through a full campaign.
While a two-year contract around $5 million is the market value anticipated for Dobbins, his history of injuries makes a repeat one-year deal for 2026 the more probable scenario.
Dobbins’ Injury Woes Impacted Broncos’ Postseason Prospects
The possibility of Dobbins leaving might mitigate some frustration, considering he missed the final seven regular-season games of 2025 with a foot injury. Notably, he was sidelined for two critical playoff contests, including the AFC Championship Game loss to the New England Patriots, where Denver’s offense struggled in adverse weather conditions without a dependable running back.
Dobbins’ frequent injuries align with a troubling pattern, as he has missed 54 regular-season games over six NFL seasons and appeared in only nine games between 2021 and 2023. His absence came at the worst possible times, hampering the Broncos’ offensive consistency during crucial stretches.
Strong Performance Before Injury Suggested Promising Future
Before his injury-shortened season ended, Dobbins was on track to become Denver’s first 1,000-yard rusher since 2019, accumulating 772 rushing yards and scoring four touchdowns over ten games. His solid average of five yards per carry reflected a valuable contribution for the Broncos, especially considering his modest one-year contract signed in June 2025.
With the addition of rookie running back RJ Harvey, selected in the second round of the 2025 draft from UCF, the Broncos significantly improved their rushing attack, a stark contrast to their struggles in 2024. Harvey posted 896 yards from scrimmage and 12 total touchdowns as a rookie starter, maintaining strong production even with Dobbins sidelined.
Given Harvey’s performance and health, it seems likely he will remain the primary ball-carrier for the Broncos in 2026, especially if Dobbins departs in free agency.
