The Los Angeles Chargers received an electrifying boost to their playoff aspirations on Friday, activating dynamic running back J.K. Dobbins from injured reserve. The fourth-year speedster has been sidelined for the past four games with a sprained MCL, but he’s now poised to return for a pivotal Week 17 clash with the New England Patriots.
Dobbins’ comeback couldn’t come at a better time for the surging Chargers, who have clawed their way back into the postseason picture with gritty December performances. At 8-6, they currently hold the AFC’s seventh seed, but they have little margin for error in a jam-packed Wild Card race.
A Game-Breaking Talent
When healthy, the 26-year-old Dobbins has been one of the NFL’s most explosive runners. Prior to his injury in Week 12, he was averaging a robust 72.6 rushing yards per game, good for seventh in the league. His ability to rip off chunk plays adds a game-breaking element to LA’s offense.
However, staying on the field has been a challenge for the former Ravens draft pick. Dobbins played in just 24 of a possible 73 games over his first four seasons in Baltimore, with serious knee injuries stealing most of his 2021 and 2022 campaigns.
When J.K.’s out there, our offense is different. He’s a home run hitter – he can take it to the house from anywhere on the field. Having that kind of weapon is huge, especially this time of year.
– Chargers HC Brandon Staley
Stepping Up in Gus Edwards’ Absence
Dobbins’ return is all the more important with fellow RB Gus Edwards already ruled out for Saturday’s game with an ankle injury. The hard-charging Edwards has been a key cog in LA’s ground attack, and his physical running style will be missed against New England’s stout front seven.
- Joshua Kelley and Larry Rountree III will provide depth behind Dobbins, but neither brings the same game-breaking upside.
- Expect the Chargers to ease Dobbins back in with a pitch count, but he should still see 12-15 touches if the game is competitive.
Massive Playoff Implications
Saturday’s showdown at Gillette Stadium is a virtual must-win for both clubs. The Patriots are clinging to the AFC’s final playoff spot at 7-7, while the Chargers can’t afford a loss with the likes of the Dolphins, Jets, and Titans still in the Wild Card mix.
The AFC playoff picture is an absolute circus 🎪
— NFL on CBS 🏈 (@NFLonCBS) December 23, 2024
Just 2 games separate 7 teams battling for 3 Wild Card spots:
6. Chargers (8-6)
7. Patriots (7-7)
8. Dolphins (7-7)
9. Jets (7-7)
10. Titans (7-7)
11. Steelers (6-8)
12. Raiders (6-8)
If LA can escape Foxborough with a victory, their path to the postseason looks favorable with the lowly Rams and Broncos waiting in Weeks 18 and 19. But a loss would send them tumbling down the standings and put their playoff fate largely out of their own hands.
The Bottom Line
Getting J.K. Dobbins back in the lineup gives the Chargers’ playoff hopes a massive lift. His big-play ability is the perfect counterpunch to Justin Herbert’s deep passing game, and it takes immense pressure off the young QB’s shoulders.
The only question is whether Dobbins can stay healthy for a full 60 minutes in the bitter New England cold. If his body holds up, the Chargers will be a threat to beat anyone this January. And with Dobbins set to hit free agency in the spring, he’s got millions of reasons to shine under the bright lights.
Buckle up, Bolts fans. With a trip to the tournament within reach and their most electric weapon back in the holster, the Chargers control their own destiny. It’s time to make a run.
