The Los Angeles Chargers Place RB J.K. Dobbins on Injured Reserve Due to Knee Injury

The Los Angeles Chargers’ season took a hit in Week 13 when running back J.K. Dobbins was placed on injured reserve after Dobbins suffered an MCL sprain during their Monday Night loss to the Baltimore Ravens. For a Chargers team trying to keep playoff hopes alive, losing their lead back is a massive setback.

Dobbins came into the 2024 NFL season with high expectations. After battling through a brutal Achilles injury in 2022, he returned this year with something to prove. His numbers told the story: 766 rushing yards, an impressive 4.8 yards per carry, and eight touchdowns in just 11 games. Those stats showed why he was a leading candidate for Comeback Player of the Year. Unfortunately, his latest injury—a severe knee sprain will sideline him for at least four games, with the potential to end his season entirely.

The Chargers’ Backfield Shuffle

With Dobbins out, head coach Jim Harbaugh will rely on veteran Gus Edwards and rookie Kimani Vidal to carry the rushing load. Vidal, while showing flashes of potential, is still finding his footing in the pros. Meanwhile, Edwards brings consistency and toughness. Known for his hard-nosed style, "Gus the Bus" earned his reputation with the Baltimore Ravens, where he averaged nearly five yards per carry under John Harbaugh’s system.

Edwards has stepped into roles like this before. Whether it was filling in for Dobbins in Baltimore or grinding out tough yards against defenders who struggle to bring him down after the first tackle, Edwards has always been a reliable option. Now, the Chargers will look to him to stabilize their run game and complement quarterback Justin Herbert’s passing attack. Historically, Edwards major contributions were in goal-to-go situations, but we will see how Roman can create packages to get him better looks between the twenties.

Dobbins’ Tough Injury History

It’s hard not to feel for J.K. Dobbins. Since his standout rookie year in 2020 with the Ravens, when he rushed for 805 yards and nine touchdowns, injuries have plagued his career. A devastating ACL tear in 2021, an Achilles injury in 2022, and a hamstring injury earlier in 2024 have all limited his time on the field.

Despite the setbacks, Dobbins had been a bright spot for the Chargers this season, bringing energy and versatility to their offense. His ability to rush through tight lanes and catch passes out of the backfield gave Los Angeles a dimension they had lacked. Now, with another setback, questions linger about his long-term durability.

The Bigger Picture

The Chargers' running game is critical to their success, especially as they try to stay competitive in the AFC playoff race. While Edwards and Vidal will do their best to fill the void, Dobbins’ absence changes the dynamic of the offense. His vision, explosiveness, and ability to create big plays simply can’t be replaced. As it stands, the earliest he can return will be week 17 against the New England Patriots. 

As for the Chargers, they’ll need to lean on their depth and creativity. Whether the Chargers stick with a solid run game attack with Vidal and Edwards or lean more on Justin Herbert and the success the team has had with him airing it out, the team has no choice but to adapt.