Denver Broncos running back J.K. Dobbins suffered a foot injury in last Thursday’s win over the Raiders that could land him on injured reserve.
Denver is considering placing Dobbins on IR, per Chris Tomasson of the Denver Gazette, which would sidelined him for the next four games. The Broncos have a bye in Week 12, so Dobbins’ earliest return would come in Week 16.
Dobbins hurt his foot on a hip drop tackle by a Raiders defender, though the play was not flagged. He left the game with about 4:30 remaining in the third quarter with rookie RJ Harvey handling the remaining carries. Dobbins seems poised to miss some time, even if he does not land on IR, so Harvey could see a major uptick in work after producing a number of explosive plays in recent weeks. Depth running backs Tyler Badie and Jaleel McLaughlin should also see a few more opportunities with Dobbins sidelined.
This would be Dobbins’ fifth stint on injured reserve since entering the league as a Ravens second-round pick in 2020. He suffered a torn ACL before his second season, a knee injury the following year, and a torn Achilles at the beginning of the 2023 season. He signed with the Chargers during the 2024 offseason and suffered an MCL sprain in November that sidelined him until late December.
Dobbins has been hit with the ‘injury-prone’ tag since his time in Baltimore, and this latest injury will continue that perception. He expressed interest in an extension with the Broncos, but will likely need to prove he can stay healthy for him to receive a multiyear commitment in Denver or anywhere else.
DNVR’s Zac Stevens noted the “important timelines” to monitor regarding Dobbins’ health, emphasizing that the Broncos did not place the veteran tailback on IR at their first opportunity, “clearing one hurdle.”
Stevens’ next steps were Dobbins’ practice participation and Denver’s activity on Saturday.
“If he doesn’t go on IR on Saturday, then great sign he won’t,” Stevens posted on X on November 11. “If he practices this week, a good sign he could play against the Chiefs.”
That would all be a great sign for Dobbins, who signed a one-year, $2 million contract with the Broncos in free agency this past offseason. He also has an extensive injury history, including tearing his Achilles, and two major knee issues.
Dobbins, 27, is fifth in the NFL in carries and rushing yards through 10 weeks.
On a busy day of Broncos transactions, their decision to refrain from putting Dobbins on IR appears promising. However, there is a conflicting potential timeline.
KOA’s Benjamin Allbright posted on X that injuries such as Dobbins’ are “typically a 4 to 6 week” recovery, but that “some people can heal a little faster.” Allbright also noted the significance of the week to follow and offered a potential way Dobbins can play through the injury.
It would involve putting a “carbon fiber insert” in Dobbins’ show, depending on swelling and pain.
“You don’t wanna lock yourself out of your best offensive weapon for a couple of games if you can avoid it,” Allbright posted on November 11. “And you’ve got time to make that decision.”
Allbright suggested the potential solution could have Dobbins back on the football field in time for the Broncos’ return from their bye week to face the Washington Commanders on the road in Week 13.
The Denver Post’s Luca Evans noted a play during the third quarter of the Broncos’ win over the Raiders, where Dobbins appeared to come up with a limp despite not taking any contact. That was after the play in which he initially injured himself.
It occurred when Raiders defensive end Tyree Wilson “hip-drop” tackled him, per Dobbins.
“I just got hip-dropped. I’m good,” Dobbins told reporters postgame. “I had a little limp there, but it wasn’t bad. I’m all good. The hip drop should have been called, though. But I’m all good.”
Amid word that he would seek another opinion, Dobbins took to social media to air his grievances, posting on X on November 7 that the NFL should “BAN OR AT LEAST CALL THE MUTHER F***** HIP DROP TACKLE!”
BOSTON, MA – In a move that has stunned fans and industry insiders alike, Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran has declined a lucrative offer to collaborate with Nike on a new line of baseball cleats. Duran, known for his speed, versatility, and dynamic style on the field, surprised many by turning down what was considered a major endorsement deal with the global sportswear giant.
Duran, whose exciting play has quickly made him one of the most promising young players in Major League Baseball, explained that his decision was grounded in his desire to remain true to his personal brand and values. “It wasn’t an easy decision, but at the end of the day, I have to make choices that align with who I am and what I want to represent,” Duran said in a statement. “Nike has been amazing to athletes, but this just wasn’t the right fit for me right now.”
“Staying True to His Roots”
While Nike is a name synonymous with top athletes, Duran’s refusal to sign on with the company has raised eyebrows in the sports world. Many young athletes would jump at the opportunity to work with such a global brand, but Duran’s approach remains focused on authenticity over financial gain or fame.
“I’ve always believed in doing things my way,” Duran explained. “When it comes to my brand, I want to make sure I’m aligning with people and products that reflect who I truly am. I want to make choices that feel real, not just because of the money or the visibility.”
“The Future of Duran’s Brand”
Although Duran turned down Nike’s offer, he has made it clear that he is not turning his back on endorsement deals altogether. In fact, he’s hinted at exploring opportunities with smaller, more niche brands that better align with his personal values. “I’m still keeping my options open,” Duran said. “I want to work with companies that support what I stand for and that understand the impact we can make together.”
Duran’s decision reflects a growing trend among athletes who are taking control of their personal brands and choosing partnerships that reflect their identity, rather than simply chasing the next big endorsement deal. With his emerging popularity, engaging personality, and presence on social media, Duran has the potential to carve out a unique space for himself in the endorsement world—one that is driven by authenticity and personal values.
“Nike’s Next Move?”
Nike, which has long been a staple in the sports world, will undoubtedly feel the impact of Duran’s decision. While the company has numerous partnerships with elite athletes, Duran’s refusal to partner with them on a baseball-specific product may lead Nike to rethink its approach when working with athletes who prioritize authenticity over financial gain.
For the Boston Red Sox, Duran’s speed and electric presence in the outfield have been a key part of the team’s identity. His decision to pass on the Nike deal may prompt other brands to rethink their approach to endorsements, especially with players who have strong individual brands like Duran.
“Looking Ahead: Jarren Duran’s Future”
Looking to the future, Duran is focused on continuing his success with the Red Sox while also growing his personal brand in a way that feels true to who he is. With a bright future ahead in both Major League Baseball and potential endorsement deals, Duran’s choice to turn down Nike is just one step in his larger journey toward independence and self-direction.
“Right now, my focus is on helping the Red Sox win and becoming the best player I can be,” Duran said. “But off the field, I’m also focused on building something that’s authentic to who I am. I know the right opportunities will come when the time is right.”
As Jarren Duran continues to make his mark in MLB, his decision to decline the Nike partnership only adds to his growing reputation as a player who is determined to shape his own future on his terms.