In a high-stakes AFC West showdown, the Los Angeles Chargers (8-6) are set to face off against the Denver Broncos (9-5) on “Thursday Night Football.” With playoff dreams on the line, both teams are gearing up for a battle that could reshape their postseason fortunes.
For the Chargers, this season has been hallmarked by a formidable defense under the new leadership of Jim Harbaugh. They’ve stifled opponents time and again, yet the offensive side of the ball tells a different story. Injuries and a lack of depth have plagued the roster, putting pressure on their emerging star, rookie wide receiver Ladd McConkey, to carry the load. The absence of key playmakers, most notably running back J.K. Dobbins, has left the Chargers scrambling for answers on offense.
Let’s dive into the latest surrounding Dobbins—whose potential return could be pivotal.
J.K. Dobbins Update
Since going down with an MCL sprain in Week 12 during a clash against his former squad, the Baltimore Ravens, Dobbins has been missed dearly. Stashed on injured reserve, he is eyeing a potential return come Week 17, though the Chargers remain tight-lipped about his status. Harbaugh mentioned prior to Week 13 that Dobbins is still “working through something with his knee,” suggesting the road to recovery is ongoing.
Given Dobbins’ injury history, his absence is not unfamiliar territory for the Chargers. Over the past few seasons, he’s been sidelined with a torn ACL and an Achilles issue, playing just nine games between 2021 and 2023. However, his 2024 resurgence was a beacon of hope, turning him into one of the league’s feel-good stories. A return to action could undoubtedly inject some needed life into L.A.’s playoff push.
Chargers Running Back Depth Chart
With Dobbins sidelined, the Chargers are relying on a trio of running backs. Here’s how the depth chart appears based on the current season’s snap counts:
- Gus Edwards
- Kimani Vidal
- Hassan Haskins
Edwards, who stepped into the starting role, has struggled to impact, averaging just 30.3 rushing yards per game and 3.8 yards per carry. Rookie Kimani Vidal saw an uptick in action in Week 15, outsnapping Edwards 35-14, but his outputs have been modest. He’s managed only 4.2 yards per carry since Dobbins went down, highlighting the challenges the Chargers face in filling that offensive gap.
Dobbins’ 2024 Performance
Before his injury, Dobbins was proving to be a driving force in the Chargers’ offense, racking up 726 yards and eight touchdowns on 152 carries. He was well on his way to achieving his first 1,000-yard rushing season. With an impressive average of 4.8 yards per carry and over 80 yards per game, his presence was undeniably felt. A return to the field could be just what Jim Harbaugh and his team need as they eye the postseason.
As the Chargers gear up to battle the Broncos, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely. Can the defense hold strong and will the offense find its rhythm? The answers may define their path to the playoffs.
