After the initial waves of free agency, the running back market is rather barren, but sooner rather than later, someone might find a home for 2024.
Free-agent running back J.K. Dobbins was “cleared” for football activities on Tuesday, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
Dobbins, a second-round selection in 2020, tore his Achilles in Week 1 of 2023, another season-ending injury. But in a letter to a few clubs, Dr. Neal ElAttrache noted that Dobbins seemed “outstanding” after rupturing his Achilles.
The top three landing places for the 25-year-old are listed below.
Dallas Cowboys
With only Rico Dowdle, an undrafted rookie in 2020, and Deuce Vaughn, a sixth-round pick in 2023, highlighting the room right now, head coach Mike McCarthy thinks more running back assistance is on the coming. The Cowboys have been likely the least active club this offseason.
“We’re not done with that room,” McCarthy said to reporters on Tuesday during the league’s assembly.
Dallas, which is severely limited in its pay options, may need Dobbins. He would be inexpensive but profitable if he can maintain his health.
From Weeks 14 to 17, 2022, Dobbins topped the league in rush yards (397) and yards per carry (7.0), according to Maurice Jones-Drew of NFL Network.
Given that Dobbins played his first four NFL seasons with the Ravens, it’s hard to argue against a reunion. John Harbaugh, the head coach, also disclosed that the team would be open to having Dalvin Cook or him return.
“If we bring one of those two guys back, I’d be happy to do it,” Harbaugh replied. “If we’re not able to do it, we’ll find some young guys.”
This offseason, Baltimore signed Derrick Henry, a former running back for the Titans, so Dobbins wouldn’t have to rush back or even be the workhorse when he did return. For Dobbins, who wants to restart his NFL career, this might be the ideal situation.
