Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Broncos Make RB Decision Before Patriots Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Parker Johnson | Last updated Jan 19, 2026 4:01 PM ET

The Denver Broncos offense has its work cut out heading into the AFC Championship Game on Sunday against the New England Patriots.

The Broncos kept their Super Bowl dream alive with a thrilling 33-30 overtime win against the Buffalo Bills on Saturday, but star quarterback Bo Nix suffered a season-ending ankle injury on the final drive. Nix completed 26 of 46 passes for 279 yards, three touchdowns and one interception. He was also the Broncos’ leading rusher against the Bills with 12 carries for 29 yards.

Quarterback Jarrett Stidham will be at the controls for the Denver offense against New England. The backup QB will be supported by a run game that has not been the same since running back J.K. Dobbins went down with a foot injury in a Week 10 win over the Las Vegas Raiders.

Denver Broncos running back J.K. Dobbins (27) after the game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Empower Field at Mile High.© Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

On Monday, the Broncos' AFC title hopes got a huge potential boost with the news from ESPN's Adam Schefter that the Broncos decided to open Dobbins' 21-day practice window, which allows for his return from injured reserve.

It is not a guarantee that Dobbins will play against the Patriots, but the length of the window also covers the potential for a return in the Super Bowl if the Broncos advance.

Sources: Broncos are opening the practice window for RB J.K. Dobbins, who suffered what was thought to be a season-ending foot injury in Week 10 against the Raiders. Dobbins has a chance to play in Sunday’s AFC championship game vs. the Patriots. pic.twitter.com/HLhlVWywfD
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 19, 2026

Dobbins' Lisfranc injury was initially believed to be a season-ending blow. The sudden change in tune could provide a lifeline for the Broncos offense, even if Dobbins is not 100 percent.

Despite missing seven games, Dobbins remains the team's leading rusher this season with 153 attempts for 772 yards, good for 5.0 yards per carry. His four rushing touchdowns trail only Nix (five) and rookie running back R.J. Harvey (seven).

Broncos offensive lineman Mike McGlinchey told the media that Dobbins has been "working his butt off to be able to have a chance to get back."

More concrete information on Dobbins' game status will come throughout the week, depending on his participation in practice.

The Broncos-Patriots game kicks off at 3 p.m. on Sunday on CBS.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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