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Baltimore Ravens running back J.K. Dobbins has struggled to stay on the field over the past two seasons. During the 2021 offseason, Dobbins tore his ACL and missed the entire year. Then in 2022, he missed another nine games due to the same knee issue.
Things were looking up for Dobbins after the 24-year-old back posted consistent numbers to end the season. However, the Ravens' running back started training camp on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list.
Is Dobbins injured or healthy? When will he return? What is his fantasy outlook? Let's dive in.
Is J.K. Dobbins Injured Or Healthy?
Dobbins hasn't seen much action on the field with the Ravens this offseason. Reports said the running back held out of optional offseason team activities (OTAs) in May/June. Now, he has missed the past couple of weeks of training camp after the team placed him on the PUP list.
However, head coach John Harbaugh spoke to the media on Tuesday and said the team expects him back "very soon." Harbaugh also stated that the ball is in Dobbins' court on when he will return.
The Ravens haven't completely stated why they placed the 24-year-old on the PUP list in the first place. It could stem from his knee issues over the past two seasons. It could also come from Dobbins' unhappiness about a new contract. Either way, there seems to be optimism that he will return soon.
J.K Dobbins 2023 Fantasy Football Outlook
The Ravens have been extremely quiet on what has kept Dobbins out of practice so far. If it's a knee issue, that is worrisome for his fantasy football value this season. After missing 26 games over the past two years, the 24-year-old running back hasn't been able to stay healthy.
However, if it's contract-related, things would be pointing up for Dobbins in his fourth NFL season. The former Ohio State superstar finished the 2022 season with five straight games (including playoffs) with 55-plus rush yards and over 12 carries. During that span, he also had three games over 90 rush yards.
Despite that, though, Dobbins does remain an extremely risky pick in fantasy drafts this season. If the Ravens stick to their offseason mantra of wanting to throw the ball more, the running back could see fewer touches in the backfield. He will likely have a much better season in 2023, but his fifth-round value is too risky right now.
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