Broncos coach says what Chargers fans already knew about J.K. Dobbins

A rare UFA tender did not keep J.K. Dobbins in Los Angeles this offseason. The now-former LA Chargers running back signed a one-year, $5.25 million contract with the team's arch rivals, the Denver Broncos.

While Chargers fans accepted the reality that Dobbins would leave the team, many are still wrestling with the fact that he will have a direct impact on the Bolts in 2025. Broncos fans are raving about this as Dobbins is coming off a productive year with the Bolts.

Fans aren't the only ones raving as Denver's coaches have also identified how impactful the former Ohio State star can be. Former Chargers offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi, who holds the same position under Sean Payton, recently raved about Dobbins after seeing him firsthand at minicamp.

"Yeah, it's exciting," Lombardi said about Dobbins. "That's a guy who has had a lot of success in his career and someone we have always had a lot of respect for and adds talent and competition to that room. Obviously, he's been a very productive runner, he's a good pass protector. It's going to help the competition in that room and help the team."

Joe Lombardi sounds like Chargers fans while talking about J.K. Dobbins

This is exactly how Chargers fans sounded when talking about Dobbins last season. Signing Dobbins was a major flier by the Chargers that instantly worked out. While he did miss four games, he was the engine of the offense by averaging 4.6 yards per carry.

The energy around Dobbins has shifted among Chargers fans since his departure. He is now on the enemy, so in turn, he is the enemy. And as a result, some fans are started to underrate the former Chargers back.

There is no questioning Dobbins' talent level and if he can stay healthy, he is going to be a dangerous member of the Broncos' offense. Lombardi isn't just providing coach speak; everything he is saying about Dobbins is 100% correct.

There is also the added wrinkle that the Chargers essentially chose to sign Najee Harris over Dobbins. The Broncos signed Dobbins to the exact same contract figure as Harris (before his incentives), which seems intentional.

While Omarion Hampton should eventually emerge as the RB1 in Los Angeles anyway, the Chargers' decision to let Dobbins walk will age poorly if he puts together a good season while Harris struggles in Los Angeles.

Of course, Chargers fans are now all-in on Harris having a good season like they were Dobbins a year ago. And if history repeats itself, Harris will also leave after one year, his new coach will provide a similar soundbite, and Chargers fans will find themselves in the exact same situation.