J.K. Dobbins has been placed on injured reserve by the Los Angeles Chargers, meaning he will miss at least the next four games due to a sprained MCL. This decision comes as a significant blow to the team’s offensive strategy.
In a related move, safety Alohi Gilman has also been placed on injured reserve, while the Chargers have signed safety Tony Jefferson to bolster their defense.
Dobbins has been a standout player this season, ranking fourth in the AFC with 766 rushing yards and maintaining an impressive average of 4.8 yards per carry. His performance had positioned him as a contender for the AP Comeback Player of the Year, especially after recovering from a torn Achilles tendon suffered in last season’s opener.
With Dobbins sidelined, Gus Edwards is expected to step up as the primary running back. Edwards himself has faced challenges this season, missing four games due to an ankle injury. Since returning, he has accumulated 25 carries for 93 yards over three games.
As the Chargers prepare for their upcoming match against NFC South leader Atlanta, they hold a 7-4 record and currently occupy the sixth seed in the AFC. Following this game, they will face tough opponents, including Kansas City (10-1) in a prime-time matchup on December 8, and will also host Tampa Bay (5-6) and Denver (7-5) later in the month.
Gilman’s absence will be felt on the field; he recorded 47 tackles, ranking fifth on the team, along with one sack before his hamstring injury sustained in the recent loss to the Ravens.
To further strengthen their roster, the Chargers have elevated cornerback Dicaprio Bootle and linebacker Jeremiah Jean-Baptiste from the practice squad ahead of Sunday’s game.
