If you’re trying to keep track of where JK Dobbins is playing right now, you aren't alone. NFL rosters move fast, and Dobbins has had a career that feels like a whirlwind. To keep it simple: JK Dobbins is currently on the Denver Broncos. He’s wearing number 27 in orange and blue. But as with anything involving Dobbins, the "where" is only half the story. The "how" and "what's next" are where things get interesting.
The Denver Chapter: Why the Broncos?
Dobbins landed in Denver during the 2025 offseason, signing a one-year deal worth roughly $5.25 million. Honestly, it was a classic Sean Payton move. Payton loves guys who can find the gap and explode, and before the injuries started piling up, that was Dobbins' entire identity.
He didn't just show up to collect a paycheck, either. In Week 4 against the Cincinnati Bengals, Dobbins put up 101 yards. That might not sound like a miracle, but for Broncos fans, it was huge—it was the first time a Denver rusher had cracked the 100-yard mark in nearly 40 games. He was basically the engine of that offense for the first two months of the season.
📖 Related: Jake Paul Mike Tyson Tattoo: What Most People Get Wrong
The Current Status: Is He Playing?
Here is the tough part. If you’re looking for him on your TV screen during the 2026 playoffs, you might be disappointed. Dobbins is currently on Injured Reserve (IR).
During a Week 10 game against the Las Vegas Raiders in November 2025, Dobbins got caught in a hip-drop tackle by Tyree Wilson. It resulted in a nasty Lisfranc injury to his left foot. He had surgery shortly after and has been out ever since.
👉 See also: What Place Is The Phillies In: The Real Story Behind the NL East Standings
- Team: Denver Broncos
- Status: Injured Reserve (Lisfranc surgery)
- Contract: 1-year (expires after this 2025-26 season)
There’s been some chatter lately, though. As of mid-January 2026, Dobbins has been spotted doing side-field work at practice. There’s a slim, "maybe if the stars align" chance he could return if the Broncos make it deep into the postseason—think AFC Championship or Super Bowl LX. But for the Divisional Round against the Buffalo Bills, the backfield belongs to rookie RJ Harvey.
A Quick Trip Down Memory Lane
To understand why people are always asking what team JK Dobbins is on, you have to look at his jersey history. He’s been a bit of a nomad, mostly because his talent is undeniable but his luck has been... well, let’s just say it's been bad.
✨ Don't miss: Huskers vs Michigan State: What Most People Get Wrong About This Big Ten Rivalry
- Baltimore Ravens (2020–2023): This is where it started. He was a second-round pick and looked like a future superstar. Then came the ACL tear in 2021, the knee issues in 2022, and the heartbreaking Achilles tear in Week 1 of 2023.
- Los Angeles Chargers (2024): He took a "prove-it" deal here and actually proved it. He put up a career-high 905 yards. People thought he was finally back for good.
- Denver Broncos (2025–Present): He stayed in the AFC West but swapped Los Angeles for the Mile High City.
What Happens in 2026?
Since he signed a one-year deal, Dobbins is technically headed for free agency again soon. This puts the Broncos in a weird spot. Do they re-sign a guy who is clearly talented but has now suffered a major knee injury, a torn Achilles, and a Lisfranc fracture?
Some analysts, like Alex Kay over at Bleacher Report, have speculated that he might head to the Dallas Cowboys next. The Cowboys are often looking for high-upside veterans on cheap, incentive-laden deals. Others think Sean Payton might keep him around on another one-year "show me" contract to mentor RJ Harvey.
Actionable Insights for Fans and Fantasy Owners
If you're following his career for fantasy or just because you like the guy, here is what you should be watching over the next few weeks:
- Monitor the 21-day practice window: If the Broncos "open the window" for Dobbins, it means he’s officially eligible to return from IR. If that doesn't happen by the AFC Championship, his season is officially over.
- Watch the Draft: If Denver takes a running back in the first three rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft, it’s a pretty clear sign they are moving on from Dobbins.
- Check the "Hip-Drop" Rule: The play that injured Dobbins has been a huge point of contention in the league. Expect his injury to be used as Exhibit A when the NFL discusses safety changes this coming spring.
Basically, JK Dobbins is a Bronco for now, but in the NFL, "for now" is usually a very short window. Keep an eye on the injury reports—if he makes it back for a Super Bowl run, it’ll be one of the best comeback stories in recent memory.