Los Angeles Chargers running back J.K. Dobbins left Monday’s game against the Baltimore Ravens with a knee injury, a setback that occurred during the first half of the match, which resulted in a 30-23 defeat for the Chargers. Dobbins, who had already accumulated 40 yards on six carries before his exit, did not return for the second half and refrained from speaking to reporters post-game. Coach Jim Harbaugh confirmed he had no updates on Dobbins’ condition, stating, “I know it’s a knee.”
The injury took place about five minutes before halftime when Dobbins was tackled by Ravens linebacker Malik Harrison, shortly before a holding penalty negated the play. After getting back on his feet, Dobbins expressed discomfort and subsequently headed to the locker room, where he was ruled out for the remainder of the game.
Backup Gus Edwards stepped in following Dobbins’ injury, but struggled to find success on the ground, finishing with just 11 yards on nine carries. The Chargers’ offense struggled significantly in Dobbins’ absence, managing only two field goals in their next five drives before a late touchdown that ultimately fell short, ending their four-game winning streak.
Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert remarked on the running game in the first half, expressing concern for Dobbins by saying, “Obviously I’m hoping J.K. is OK.” Before the injury, the Chargers were ranked twelfth in the NFL for rushing yards, but they ended the game with only 83 yards.
Dobbins, who was drafted by the Ravens in 2020 and faced injury challenges over the past two seasons, signed a one-year deal with the Chargers in the offseason. This season, he stood third in the AFC for rushing with 726 yards, averaging 4.8 yards per carry and was viewed as a strong contender for the Comeback Player of the Year title after recovering from a torn Achilles tendon suffered in last year’s opener.
Despite the discouraging news regarding Dobbins, there remains hope that his injury will not be severe, allowing him to return to the field. The Chargers are fortunate to have depth in their backfield and with continued support from the coaching staff, the team can regroup and strengthen their performance moving forward. A quick recovery for Dobbins would be a great boost not only for him personally but for the Chargers’ playoff ambitions as well.