Ravens might have another contract issue with top player to worry about

The Baltimore Ravens finally worked out their contract issue with superstar quarterback Lamar Jackson, and now they might have another headache with a different key offensive player.

That player is running back J.K. Dobbins.

Dobbins admitted on Thursday, via ESPN, that he sat out the team's minicamp workouts this week because he does not have a new deal.

He was at the team facility, but did not take part in any practices or voluntary workouts this offseason. He is in the final year of his rookie deal and would like a new contract.

When healthy, Dobbins has been an impact player, averaging 5.9 yards per carry as one of the best big-play threats in the league at the position. Every time he touches the ball, he is a threat to score a touchdown.

The big concern with Dobbins, though, is the fact injuries have significantly impacted his career. Since being a second-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, he has appeared in just 23 out of a potential 50 regular-season games, meaning he has missed more games than he has played in. He already missed the entire 2021 season and was limited to just eight games during the 2022 season.

Given the nature of the position, how short their careers are and how many injuries Dobbins has always suffered, it would take quite a leap of faith by the Ravens to give him a long-term deal. There would be significant risk. But several top running backs around the league are taking a stand on the devaluing of their position and want to get paid for their skill and production. Dobbins is next in line wanting to get his money.