Report: Broncos RB J.K. Dobbins could return for AFC title game

Field Level Media|published: 01/19/2026, 5:17pm EST

Nov 6, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Broncos running back J.K. Dobbins (27) in the fourth quarter against the Las Vegas Raiders at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

Broncos running back J.K. Dobbins was expected to miss the rest of the season after a Week 10 foot injury, but may play in Sunday's AFC title game after Denver opened his practice window, ESPN reported on Monday.

Dobbins, 27, is the Broncos' leading rusher this season with 772 yards and four touchdowns on 153 carries, despite not playing since Nov. 6.

Last week as the Broncos practiced for their divisional-round matchup with the Buffalo Bills, Dobbins took part in drills on an adjacent field.

If the fifth-year back can return, it would likely take some of the pressure off backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham, who will be under center following Bo Nix's season-ending ankle injury.

Nix, who fractured his right ankle in Denver's 33-30 overtime win over the visiting Buffalo Bills on Saturday, was the team's leading rusher with 12 carries for 29 yards. The Broncos' running backs Jaheel McLaughling (21 yards) and rookie RJ Harvey (20) totaled just 41 yards on 10 carries against the Bills.

Harvey was second on the Broncos in rushing yards this season but finished 232 yards behind Dobbins, who only suited up for 10 games.

--Field Level Media