The NFL offseason has set the stage for a major reshuffling in running back positions across the league, particularly involving free agent J.K. Dobbins, as teams like the Cleveland Browns and Pittsburgh Steelers consider their roster options for the 2025 season.
Both the Browns and Steelers are grappling with significant changes in their backfields after veteran running backs faced injuries or left via free agency. The Browns, who have predominantly relied on Nick Chubb, are exploring alternatives as concerns mount over his durability. Meanwhile, the Steelers are retooling their running game after allowing Najee Harris to hit free agency.
Bleacher Report's Moe Moton recently highlighted Dobbins as a strong candidate for the Browns, stating he could thrive paired with Jerome Ford, who hasn’t proven to be a workhorse but complements a diversified backfield (Moton). Dobbins had a bumpy past season with the Los Angeles Chargers, missing significant time due to injuries after a promising start where he rushed for 266 yards in his first two games. He finished with 905 yards and nine touchdowns on 195 carries, but the specter of his injury history looms large, with just over 400 career carries to date.
At the same time, Steelers' general manager Bill Barnwell considered Dobbins as a possible replacement for Harris, noting his efficiency—averaging 5.2 yards per carry over his career and ranking among the top in rushing yards over expectation. Barnwell underscored the potential of a backfield featuring Dobbins along with Jaylen Warren, who has been tendered a second-round contract to maintain his role with the team.
However, Barnwell also expressed caution, indicating, “It’s tough to project Dobbins into a full-time role... Given eight to ten carries a game as a situational back, though, he could still be a useful player in the right offense.” Such sentiments echo through the halls of the Browns, who are weighing the risks of bringing in a player with Dobbins' level of injury concerns.
The Browns' backfield strategy may involve a decision beyond just Dobbins, especially considering depth options available in the NFL Draft. The draft offers a plethora of healthy prospects that do not carry the same injury burden as Dobbins, who has faced multiple injury setbacks since entering the league.
The Steelers, for their part, are also navigating a significant transition following Harris' departure. They signed Kenneth Gainwell to a one-year deal earlier this offseason as they begin reshaping their identity on the ground.
The Steelers are also not ruling out adding another veteran running back through free agency. Barnwell’s recommendations highlight the Steelers’ collective interest in Dobbins, Denver Broncos, and Browns as potential fits. “The list of backs with 300 carries who have averaged more yards per rush than Dobbins consists solely of De’Von Achane and Jahmyr Gibbs,” Barnwell noted, emphasizing Dobbins' past productivity.
In addition to injuries, Dobbins’ production dropped off considerably as the 2024 season progressed, averaging just 3.8 yards per carry after the first two games. His previous two seasons were punctuated by knee issues that limited his time and effectiveness.
With the NFL Draft approaching, teams like the Browns and Steelers will need to carefully consider whether investing in Dobbins aligns with their overall strategy. Both teams have shown interest in bringing him on board but must remain mindful of his injury history as they look to cultivate a dependable backfield.
In a league that increasingly prioritizes versatile backs able to catch passes and provide depth across multiple roles, the decision regarding Dobbins becomes even more critical. His fit would ideally involve a system that limits his workload to maximize on-field effectiveness and longevity.
As teams weigh their options, Dobbins' fate may be sealed by a combination of his previous performances, current health status, and the overall direction of each franchise’s strategy leading into the next season.
