J.K. Dobbins Faces Struggles Early in 2026 Broncos Season

Denver Broncos running back J.K. Dobbins is seeking to find his form as the team prepares for its Week 4 matchup against the San Francisco 49ers. The veteran player, who signed a two-year extension with the organization this past offseason, has faced an inauspicious start to the 2026 campaign.

What happened to J.K. Dobbins?

Through the first three weeks of the season, Dobbins has recorded 121 rushing yards on 35 carries. This performance marks a career-low average of 3.5 yards per carry. Despite being on the field for 42% of the team's offensive snaps, he has yet to score a rushing touchdown this year.

His involvement in the passing game has also been limited. Dobbins has hauled in one of two targets for four yards throughout his first three appearances. These targets occurred during the team's Week 3 victory over the Los Angeles Rams.

Why is it trending?

Search interest in Dobbins has spiked as fans and analysts monitor his production relative to the expectations set during his contract renewal. Following a series of preseason health concerns, including a soft-tissue injury and a hip issue reported in Week 1, observers are tracking his physical readiness and efficiency on the field.

What does the team say?

Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton addressed the situation ahead of the team's travel to San Francisco. While acknowledging the current statistical output, Payton expressed confidence in the running back's potential to improve.

“I think he’s ready, and I just think that there’ll be a combination of things that can lead into that, but I’m looking forward to watching him,” Payton stated. He noted that the team re-signed the veteran specifically for his skill set and competitive nature.

What happens next?

Dobbins is expected to continue leading the Denver ground game as the team moves into the next phase of the schedule. He has reportedly recovered from earlier hip and hamstring concerns, positioning him to remain the primary option in the backfield as the Broncos look to build on their recent win.