The Carolina Panthers released running back Miles Sanders in a cost-cutting move, but they could still use a back like free agent J.K. Dobbins. A second-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, the Ohio State product finally stayed (mostly) healthy last year with Jim Harbaugh’s Chargers. Appearing in 13 games while making 11 starts, the running back finished the season with 905 rushing yards and nine touchdowns on 195 carries while adding another 32 receptions for 153 yards.
When he originally entered the league, Dobbins was one of the most talented runners in a loaded class. While he’s played well when healthy, he has struggled to stay on the field. The running back missed the entire 2021 season and most of 2022 and 2023 while battling various ailments, which likely means he won’t earn a starting job. The Panthers could use another set of legs in the backfield, and J.K. Dobbins may be the best free agent for the job.
Why the Panthers Should Target Free Agent J.K. Dobbins
In theory, the Carolina Panthers have two promising running backs in veteran Chuba Hubbard and 2024 second-round pick Jonathon Brooks. While Hubbard should be ready for another strong season, the Panthers shouldn’t put too much faith in Brooks. Selected out of Texas, Brooks suffered an ACL injury during his final collegiate season and couldn’t perform during the NFL Combine. Despite this, Carolina selected him with their second-round pick, as reports across the league indicated he’d be back to full strength early in the 2024 season.
Unfortunately, that didn’t happen. Brooks’ return to the field continued to get delayed as the rehab process took more time than anyone would have liked. While he eventually made his way onto the field, he only played in three games before suffering another season-ending knee injury late in the year. Perhaps this recovery can be smoother, but the Panthers shouldn’t bet on Brooks playing a major role in 2025.
J.K. Dobbins comes with his own uncomfortable injury history, but the Ohio State product is currently healthy and offers plenty of upside. Chuba Hubbard is a good starter, but nobody wants him to receive 300 touches a season. Working behind a strong offensive line, Dobbins and Hubbard could be one of the league’s better running back duos.
Will the Chargers Let Him Go?
J.K. Dobbins played well for the Los Angeles Chargers, but all signs point towards the free agent signing with a new team in 2025. Head coach Jim Harbaugh is an old-fashioned coach who loves a hard-nosed rushing attack, which makes the Najee Harris signing such a perfect fit. Harris lacks the explosion and speed to justify his first-round selection, but he sheds tackles like it’s nothing and excels at delivering punishment to opposing linebackers.
While Najee Harris is a workhorse, he can’t handle every single carry. This team needs another reliable running back, but it probably won’t be Dobbins. The 2025 NFL Draft class is loaded with talent, and it’s safe to assume Los Angeles will draft someone like North Carolina’s Omarion Hampton in the first or second round. The Chargers already have their short-term starter in Harris, and Dobbins is too old to be a long-term solution. Carolina makes the most sense for the free agent, and J.K. Dobbins should have a good season paired with Bryce Young.
Main Photo: Thomas Shea – Imagn Images
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