INGLEWOOD, Calif. (AP) — After a series of injuries that derailed J K Dobbins’ promising career with the Ravens, the running back was looking like his old self in his first game back against Baltimore. However, just as his resurgence seemed to be gaining momentum, another injury cut his performance short.
Dobbins suffered a knee injury late in the first half and did not return in the Ravens’ 30-23 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers. Coach Jim Harbaugh couldn’t provide details on the injury’s severity, but it was clear the Chargers’ new running back faced yet another setback in his journey back to form.
“I thought we did a solid job running the ball in the first half,” said Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert. “Obviously, I’m hoping J.K. is alright.”
J K Dobbins rushed for 40 yards on six carries, showcasing the agility and speed that had made him a key asset for the Chargers this season. But the injury occurred roughly five minutes before halftime when linebacker Malik Harrison wrenched him backward, followed by a gang tackle from the Ravens. The play was nullified due to a holding penalty, but the damage was done. Dobbins grabbed his knee as he got up, eventually heading to the locker room, where he was ruled out for the second half.
“I don’t have an update,” said Coach Harbaugh. “I know it’s a knee injury.”
Without J K Dobbins, backup Gus Edwards took over, but he struggled to make an impact, rushing for only 11 yards on nine carries. The Chargers’ offense faltered in the second half, managing just two field goals on their next five possessions before a late touchdown that sealed the loss, snapping their four-game win streak.
The Chargers finished the game with just 83 rushing yards, a sharp drop from their usual average, which ranked 12th in the league going into the game. With limited offensive firepower, a long-term absence for Dobbins could significantly impact their ability to compete in the highly competitive AFC.
J K Dobbins has become a crucial part of the Chargers’ offense, especially with key players like wide receivers Keenan Allen and Mike Williams and running back Austin Ekeler all absent from the squad this season.
Dobbins was drafted by the Ravens in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft and is expected to be the team’s first overall pick. After a strong rookie season in which he rushed for 805 yards in 15 games, his career was derailed by a series of knee and Achilles injuries. After missing most of the 2021 and 2022 seasons, Dobbins entered the 2023 season with the Ravens but suffered another major injury in Week 1.
Seeking a fresh start, J K Dobbins signed a one-year contract with the Chargers, which kept him healthy and saved his career. Heading into Monday night’s game, he had already amassed 726 rushing yards with a 4.8-yard per carry average.
Herbert kept fighting to keep the Chargers in the game in the second half, but his remaining weapons struggled to make an impact. Wide receiver Quentin Johnston, in particular, had a tough night, failing to catch any of his five targets, three of which could have led to significant gains.
Herbert said Johnston’s performance this year was amazing. “Everyone has those tough moments. It’s not just on him; we all have to do better.”
Johnston, who showed improvement this season with six touchdown catches from 22 receptions, acknowledged that he needs to step up.
“You just have to move forward and learn from it,” Johnston said. “I know I have to do better and I’ll try my best.”
Source: beloitdailynews
I am Azzam Ameen, a news journalist based in Colombo, Sri Lanka, with extensive experience in covering significant national and international events. My work focuses on delivering accurate and insightful news that resonates with audiences. Over the years, I have reported on a variety of critical issues, including political developments, social changes, and global affairs. I am committed to providing in-depth analysis and ensuring that every story I cover is both factual and impactful. Stay connected with me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tiktok etc.
