Chargers Offseason Dilemma: Will J.K. Dobbins Return or is a New Running Back on the Way?
When the Los Angeles Chargers signed running back J.K. Dobbins in free agency last offseason, there was no telling what he would be able to provide. After all, he was coming off multiple injury-plagued seasons. However, the move ended up paying off big time. Dobbins had his best year as a pro, with the former second-round pick tallying over 1,000 yards from scrimmage including 905 on the ground and nine touchdowns. Dobbins' future is currently up in the air. He's set to hit free agency this offseason, and if the Chargers decide lightning may not strike twice in terms of him being able to stay healthy or if Dobbins decides to leave, head coach Jim Harbaugh and Joe Hortiz will have a big hole to fill on offense.
If the Chargers go in a different direction at running back in 2025, Fantasy Pros suggest Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris as a potential solution. "Harris caught the backend of Ben Roethlisberger, before Kenny Pickett and then the mish-mash of Russell Wilson in 2024," the outlet wrote. "What if, in a magical fantasy football timeline, we get Harris with a capable quarterback in an offense that helps running backs shine? That could be very fun." Harris tallied 1,000 yards or more on the ground in each of his four years with the Steelers and proved to be an asset in the passing game while also showing he's reliable after not missing a single game. However, his huge workload was the biggest factor in his reaching the 1,000-yard mark four straight times, as he averaged a lackluster 3.9 yards per carry.
One of the top free agents for the Chargers this offseason is J.K. Dobbins. With a lack of consistent production and overall experience behind him, many expect the Chargers to bring Dobbins back after a big 2024 season. However, if they choose to go in another direction, Scott Engel of NJ.com predicts they may target veteran running back Aaron Jones. "There is a good chance that Jones returns to Minnesota, but if he does not, Los Angeles would be a good fit. He can immediately step in as a versatile and needed starter. Jones is 30 years old, yet he is still effective as a runner with power, juke, and some speed," wrote Engel.
Jones had a standout season with the Minnesota Vikings last year, rushing for a career-high 1,138 yards and scoring five touchdowns. He also caught 51 passes for 408 yards and two additional touchdowns. Despite being 30 years old, Jones has remained durable and played all 17 games last season, which could make him a more reliable option compared to Dobbins. Dobbins had a career year with the Chargers despite overcoming a knee injury and missing four games. He finished the season with 195 carries, 32 receptions, 1,058 scrimmage yards, and nine touchdowns. While Aaron Jones is considered one of the best running backs available in free agency, he is also 30, whereas Dobbins is only 26.
Additionally, the market valuation makes Dobbins an even more appealing option. According to Spotrac, Aaron Jones is expected to get a one-year, $5.6 million deal, while Dobbins' market projection is a two-year, eight million contract. Given his age, ceiling, and lower cost, Dobbins could be the best option for a contender looking to get over the hump, though having a backup plan on the roster would be essential. Regardless of which direction the Chargers choose, their decision at running back will play a crucial role in shaping Jim Harbaugh’s offense for the 2025 season and beyond.
