Broncos RB J.K. Dobbins Hints at 2026 Future

Dobbins believes he will remain with the Denver Broncos long-term despite being a free agent this offseason.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Denver Broncos running back J.K. Dobbins expressed confidence that he will remain with the team beyond the 2026 season, citing his strong relationships with the organization, coaching staff, and teammates as reasons he wants to stay in Denver long-term.

Why it matters

Dobbins' comments provide insight into the Broncos' offseason plans as they have several key free agents to address, including Dobbins. His desire to stay in Denver could influence the team's decision-making as they look to build on their success from the 2025 season.

The details

Dobbins, who signed with the Broncos late last offseason, quickly became the team's RB1 and a team leader before a Lisfranc injury in Week 10 cut his 2025 season short. Before the injury, Dobbins rushed for 772 yards and 4 touchdowns, averaging 5.0 yards per carry. Dobbins credited the Broncos' ownership, coaching staff, and welcoming locker room as reasons he wants to remain in Denver, even mentioning his desire to continue mentoring rookie RB RJ Harvey.

  • Dobbins suffered a Lisfranc injury in Week 10 of the 2025 season.
  • Dobbins was back practicing ahead of the AFC Championship Game and would have had a chance to play had the Broncos advanced to the Super Bowl.

The players

J.K. Dobbins

A 27-year-old running back for the Denver Broncos who is entering his seventh NFL season.

Sean Payton

The head coach of the Denver Broncos.

Lou Ayeni

The running backs coach for the Denver Broncos.

Vance Joseph

The defensive coordinator for the Denver Broncos.

RJ Harvey

A rookie running back for the Denver Broncos who Dobbins has mentored.

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What they’re saying

“So it's just been a great time here in my short time. I think that I'll be here.”

— J.K. Dobbins (Sports Illustrated)

“Hopefully, I will. I think I'm a Bronco for life.”

— J.K. Dobbins (Sports Illustrated)

“It starts with the ownership. They get us everything that we need to be successful here.”

— J.K. Dobbins (Sports Illustrated)

“My man Coach Sean Payton, I love him to death. He's one of my favorite coaches ever.”

— J.K. Dobbins (Sports Illustrated)

“I'm going to help him get better even if I'm not here. He's my rookie forever.”

— J.K. Dobbins (Sports Illustrated)

What’s next

The Broncos will have to decide whether to re-sign Dobbins or let him test free agency this offseason.

The takeaway

Dobbins' strong desire to remain in Denver long-term, despite being a free agent, highlights the importance of building a positive culture and supporting players through injuries. The Broncos will have to weigh Dobbins' injury history against his production and leadership when deciding his future with the team.