Broncos RB J.K. Dobbins Done for Season with Devastating Lisfranc Injury
DENVER, CO - The Denver Broncos have confirmed the fears of fans and analysts alike: star running back J.K. Dobbins is officially out for the remainder of the 2025 NFL season. NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported Saturday that Dobbins requires immediate surgery due to a significant foot injury involving ligament damage, widely believed to be a Lisfranc fracture.
This news is a colossal blow to the 8-2 Broncos, who relied on Dobbins as the centerpiece of their potent rushing attack. His expected time off due to the surgical procedure and rehabilitation means the running back's career-long battle with injuries continues, forcing the team into an immediate strategic pivot.
The Severity: What is a Lisfranc Injury?
The severity of Dobbins ligament involvement suggests a serious injury to the Lisfranc joint complex—the crucial bones and ligaments connecting the midfoot to the forefoot. This type of trauma, often seen in football players during a sudden twisting motion or when another player lands on a planted foot, is debilitating.
Unlike a simple sprain, ligament damage in this area destabilizes the foot's arch. Surgery is necessary to realign the bones and fixate them with screws or plates. This procedure is followed by a long, arduous recovery period, which is why Dobbins season is over.
Immediate Impact and Replacement: The RJ Harvey Factor
With Dobbins 772 rushing yards and four touchdowns suddenly removed from the depth chart, the Denver Broncos backfield hierarchy shifts dramatically. The clear beneficiary, according to team sources, is rookie running back RJ Harvey.
Harvey is now expected to handle the bulk of the carries, elevating him from a backup role to a central piece of the Broncos playoff push. Veterans like Tyler Badie and Jaleel McLaughlin will also see increased snaps, but Harvey performance will dictate the success of Denver ground game for the remainder of the year.
Fantasy Football Fallout: Waiver Wire Priority
Fantasy managers holding Dobbins must act immediately. He is a definitive drop in all redraft formats. The top priority on the waiver wire is unequivocally RJ Harvey. Given Dobbins high usage rate, Harvey steps into a high-volume role that could make him an immediate RB2/Flex option for the fantasy playoffs. Managers should allocate a significant portion of their Free Agent Acquisition Budget (FAAB) or use a high waiver priority to secure him.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Regarding Dobbins' Injury
Is Dobbins Lisfranc Injury Confirmed, and What is the Timeline?
While the term 'Lisfranc' has been widely reported by reputable sources like Mike Klis, the Broncos officially termed it a 'significant foot injury with ligament involvement.' Regardless of the precise name, the need for surgery confirms the severity. Recovery for a surgically repaired Lisfranc injury in an NFL athlete typically takes 8 to 12 months. Dobbins will be focusing on being ready for the 2026 training camp, not the 2025 playoffs.
Who is the Primary Fantasy Football Replacement for J.K. Dobbins?
The clear top waiver priority is rookie RB RJ Harvey. Harvey is set to take over the early-down work and much of the passing-down duties, making him a viable starter. Tyler Badie and Jaleel McLaughlin will fill in, but Harvey should be viewed as the new workhorse back for the Broncos.
How Will This Injury Affect the Denver Broncos Playoff Strategy?
Losing Dobbins is a major setback. His physical running style was key in controlling the clock. Head Coach Sean Payton will need to lean more heavily on the passing game with quarterback Bo Nix and potentially rely on a more committee-based rushing approach, at least until Harvey proves he can handle the full load. The team's ability to maintain a balanced offense is now under immense pressure.
Was this injury related to Dobbins' previous knee issues?
No, the Lisfranc injury is a separate foot trauma and not directly related to his previous ACL tear. However, the cumulative effect of these major lower-body injuries raises long-term concerns about his durability. The foot injury occurred after what many believe was a 'hip-drop tackle' during the recent game against the Raiders, a controversial tackle type that the NFL is currently evaluating for potential ban.
What should Dynasty League managers do with J.K. Dobbins?
In Dynasty Leagues (where players are kept long-term), Dobbins remains a difficult hold. While he should be placed on the Injured Reserve (IR) slot, his value has plummeted due to his extensive injury history. Managers should hold him if they have an IR spot, but they should not expect a full return to his previous form until mid-to-late 2026. He is a high-risk, high-reward stash, given his incredible talent when healthy.
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