Chargers Keeping Door Open for J.K. Dobbins Potential Return
The Los Angeles Chargers are keeping their options open with running back J.K. Dobbins, applying the unrestricted free agent tender to the 26-year-old, according to the NFL's official transaction wire on Tuesday morning. This strategic move mirrors a similar decision made by the Cleveland Browns with wide receiver Elijah Moore and allows the Chargers to maintain negotiating leverage on Dobbins until training camp. Under the terms of the UFA tender, if Dobbins does not sign with another team by the start of training camp, the Chargers will have exclusive rights to negotiate with him. Should he return to Los Angeles for the 2025 season under the tender, he would earn three million on a one-year deal. If another team signs him before camp, the Chargers could gain a compensatory draft pick, adding future value either way.
Dobbins joined the Chargers last offseason on a prove-it deal worth $1.6 million after an injury-riddled stint with the Baltimore Ravens. Though his career has been marred by injuries, including missing all of 2021 and playing just one game in 2023, Dobbins bounced back with a strong showing in 2024. In 13 games, he ran for 905 yards and nine touchdowns, averaging four yards per carry, and finished second in Comeback Player of the Year voting. Despite those flashes of promise, Dobbins’ availability continues to be a question mark. He has played just 37 of a possible 84 games since entering the league in 2020.
The Chargers' offseason moves suggest Dobbins may face stiff competition—or perhaps be on the outside looking in. Los Angeles signed Najee Harris in free agency, selected Omarion Hampton in the first round of the draft, and picked up Raheim Sanders as an undrafted free agent. That’s three potential contributors added to the backfield, making Dobbins’ return seem less likely from a roster standpoint. However, subtle moves—like asking rookie defensive back R.J. Mickens to switch his jersey number from 27 to 41—may hint that a Dobbins reunion is still in play. His former number could be cleared just in case.
Applying the UFA tender to Dobbins is more about flexibility and value protection than a guaranteed return. If Dobbins signs elsewhere, the Chargers benefit from a compensatory pick. If he doesn’t, they get an experienced back for a manageable price, who, when healthy, has proven he can contribute at a high level. For now, Los Angeles is simply keeping all options open—both on the field and in the front office. As the offseason unfolds and training camp approaches, all eyes will be on whether Dobbins gets one more chance to prove he belongs in powder blue.
