- - Broncos could get starting RB J.K. Dobbins back from injury for AFC championship game vs. Patriots

Jason OwensJanuary 20, 2026 at 4:14 AM

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The Denver Broncos will be significantly shorthanded in Sunday's AFC championship game without starting quarterback Bo Nix.

But there may be some good injury news on the way in the offensive backfield. The Broncos have opened up the practice window for starting running J.K. Dobbins to return from injured reserve, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.

Dobbins has been sidelined with an injury to the Lisfranc ligament in his left foot since November. He suffered the injury in Week 10 against the Las Vegas Raiders and required surgery that was initially believed to be season-ending.

Now there's a chance that he can play in the AFC championship game on Sunday. And whether he plays or not this week, he'd also be eligible to play in the Super Bowl if the Broncos advance and he receives medical clearance.

His return would provide a boost to an offense that needs one with the news that Nix's season is over due to a fractured ankle sustained late in Sunday's playoff win over the Buffalo Bills. Backup Jarrett Stidham will start against the Patriots on Sunday with a trip to the Super Bowl at stake. He hasn't thrown an NFL pass since the 2023 season.

That means the Broncos could lean more heavily on the run game. If healthy, Dobbins is Denver's No. 1 option out of the backfield.

Prior to his injury, Dobbins was off to a strong start in his first season with the Broncos. In 10 games, Dobbins tallied 772 yards and 4 touchdowns on 5 yards per carry.

His backup, rookie RJ Harvey, has taken over the lead back role in his absence. Harvey tallied 540 rushing yards and 7 touchdowns on 3.7 yards per carry while playing in all 17 regular season games.

The winner of Sunday's game will advance to face the NFC championship game winner between the Seahawks and Rams in the Super Bowl.

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Source: “AOL Sports”