J.K. Dobbins joined the LA Chargers last year on a one-year flier deal with just $50,000 guaranteed. Despite a brief stint on injured reserve, he put any durability concerns to rest with a strong season as the team’s lead back.
Now entering free agency, Dobbins carries a higher price tag than last year. With Gus Edwards and Kimani Vidal as the only running backs currently under contract, the Chargers must decide whether to retain Dobbins or seek a replacement.
Re-signing Dobbins at a premium cost poses a risk the Chargers may be hesitant to take. However, despite his impressive season, his market value may still be somewhat limited. Pro Football Focus projects the former Ohio State standout to land a two-year, $7 million deal, with $4 million guaranteed.
J.K. Dobbins’ contract projection is perfect for the Chargers
The running back market will be intriguing to watch this offseason, especially after Derrick Henry and Saquon Barkley’s strong performances, which may have elevated the value of free-agent running backs.
This year’s free-agent class is relatively thin, with J.K. Dobbins, Aaron Jones, Najee Harris, and Nick Chubb being the only notable names available. With limited options, a team in urgent need of a running back could end up overpaying for Dobbins.
However, Pro Football Focus does not anticipate that happening, which works in the Chargers’ favor. Despite having cap space, Los Angeles must be strategic and avoid overpaying for Dobbins just because he had a productive season. It’s essential to consider the broader roster-building strategy.
A projected two-year, $7 million contract with $4 million guaranteed would be a manageable deal. At that price, Dobbins’ cap hit for 2025 would likely fall between $2.5 million and $3 million, and the team could move on in 2026 with only a minimal dead-cap hit if necessary.
This affordable contract would allow the Chargers to retain Dobbins while also investing in a running back through the draft. The 2025 class is deep, and Los Angeles could find a potential replacement in the mid-rounds.
If Dobbins commanded a higher salary, the Chargers might be forced to prioritize drafting a running back earlier, as few viable free-agent alternatives exist—and if Dobbins’ price rises, so would others.
At this projected cost, however, the Chargers could secure Dobbins without limiting their draft flexibility. Given the reasonable price, there’s little reason for Los Angeles not to bring him back.
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