With training camps about to kick off in cities across the country, it’s hard to ignore the absence of J.K. Dobbins, a standout running back who is still looking for a team. Dobbins, who rose to fame during his time at Ohio State, is still unsigned even after the NFL Draft has come and gone, raising eyebrows among fans and analysts alike.
The 26-year-old had a solid season with the Los Angeles Chargers in 2024, where he played in 13 games. He managed to rush for 905 yards and find the end zone nine times, averaging an impressive 4.6 yards per carry. Additionally, he contributed in the passing game, catching 32 passes for 153 yards. His performance this past year showed that when he’s healthy, he can be a major asset on the field.
Dobbins made a name for himself at Ohio State from 2017 to 2019, becoming the second all-time leading rusher in the school’s history with 2,003 rushing yards in his final season. That year, he also scored a remarkable 21 touchdowns, averaging 6.7 yards per attempt and showcasing his explosive playing style.
Drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, Dobbins spent his early career there before transferring to the Chargers. However, his career has been riddled with injuries. Due to a history of injuries, he has only played in 37 games over five seasons—missing the entire 2021 campaign and appearing in just one game in 2023. Despite these setbacks, Dobbins has maintained an average of 5.2 yards per carry throughout his career, which demonstrates his potential when fit.
Given Dobbins’ talent and the fact that the off-season is advancing, many are puzzled by his current status. Unless he is demanding a hefty contract with a lot of guaranteed money or a lengthy deal, it’s surprising to see such a talented player still on the market this late in the off-season. As training camps begin, it remains to be seen whether Dobbins will find his new home in the NFL.
