Broncos Lose Out on JK Dobbins Replacement to Chiefs

By Reice Shipley

Contributing Sports Writer

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The Denver Broncos entered their Week 12 bye with one glaring question mark at the running back position following J.K. Dobbins' season-ending injury. Unfortunately, their attempt to bring in a replacement for Dobbins on Sunday was foiled by perhaps their biggest AFC West rival, the Kansas City Chiefs.

For the most part, the 2025 season has gone as good as it possibly could for the Broncos. Their 9-2 record has them firmly at the top of the AFC West and potentially in contention for the top overall seed in the AFC.

While Denver is riding an eight-game winning streak, there are reasons to be concerned about their rushing attack without Dobbins in the picture. Notably, the Broncos were only able to rush for 59 yards in their Week 11 win over the Chiefs, their first game since their star running back's injury.

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Attempting to fill the void of Dobbins' absence, the Broncos were reportedly nearing a deal with free agent running back Dameon Pierce, according to Broncos reporter Mike Klis. However, Pierce instead opted to sign with the Chiefs' practice squad.

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Denver will now look elsewhere to potentially add depth at running back to help replace Dobbins. Meanwhile, the Chiefs add a player who can potentially factor into their running back room, which could come back to bite the Broncos.

The Chiefs and Broncos do still have one remaining game against one another in Week 17 that could have ramifications at the top of the AFC West standings. If Pierce does end up gaining a role on the Chiefs' offense by the time that matchup happens, missing out on signing him could sting even more.

On the bright side for Denver, they will get an ideal matchup to potentially get their run game going in Week 13 when they take on the Washington Commanders, who have allowed the seventh-most rushing yards in football this year. So maybe rookie running back RJ Harvey can show that he is fully capable of taking on a workhorse role without Dobbins or Pierce in the picture.

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