J.K. Dobbins’ Fantasy Outlook, Waiver Wire Advice After Chargers RB’s Breakout Week 1
Paul KasabianFeatured Columnist IISeptember 8, 2024
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Los Angeles Chargers running back J.K. Dobbins rushed for 135 yards and one touchdown on just 10 carries to lead the Bolts to a 22-10 home victory over the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday.
He looked explosive, nevermore than when the ex-Ohio State star galloped for a 65-yard gain late in the fourth quarter.
Los Angeles Chargers @chargersjk dobbins the man that u are
📺 | @nfloncbs pic.twitter.com/YZGjq4cXYm
Dobbins also warded off Raiders defenders for a 12-yard touchdown to begin the fourth.
NFL @NFLJ.K. Dobbins finds the end zone! Six more for the @Chargers ⚡️
📺: #LVvsLAC on CBS/Paramount+
📱: https://t.co/waVpO909ge pic.twitter.com/utJfFTj1L7
Dobbins entered the NFL in 2020 after a dominant run at Ohio State, where he amassed 5,104 total yards and 43 touchdowns over three campaigns.
The Baltimore Ravens selected him with a second-round pick, and Dobbins excelled when called upon, gaining 925 yards and scoring nine touchdowns on just 152 touches during his rookie year.
Unfortunately, Dobbins has only played eight games over the past three seasons.
He suffered a torn ACL, torn ACL, LCL, meniscus and hamstring during a 2021 preseason game.
Dobbins suffered a knee flare-up in 2022 and a “range of motion issue with scar tissue,” per head coach John Harbaugh. He was limited to seven games on 2022.
And then in 2023, Dobbins suffered a torn Achilles in Week 1, ending his season again.
Dobbins signed with the Chargers as a free agent, joining a backfield that also includes former Ravens teammate Gus Edwards.
The duo led the Bolt backfield on Sunday. Edwards finished with 26 rushing yards on 11 carries.
From a fantasy perspective, Dobbins is certainly worth considering on the Week 2 waiver wire. He’s shown ability to be efficient and explosive when called upon, and that happened again on Sunday.
The fantasy downside is that Dobbins probably isn’t in line for 15-20 touches or more per week. With Dobbins coming off serious injuries, that wouldn’t be a wise move for the Bolts as the Ravens running back grinds through his first full season since 2020.
Plus, Edwards is there to handle his double-digit carries per game and gain the tough yards between the tackles.
But if there was any concern about rust or ineffectiveness coming off a year away from the game, then those issues were certainly put to rest. He looked great out there and should see his opportunities moving forward.
Dobbins is rostered in 48 percent of Yahoo Sports fantasy leagues, so if he’s available and you’re in need for a running back, he’s certainly worth strong consideration as a backup running back or flex option moving forward.
