Is J.K. Dobbins Out For the Season? Week 14 Fantasy Football Injury Update

Head coach Jim Harbaugh hinted earlier in the week that J.K. Dobbins could miss significant time, and it has now been confirmed that the talented running back will be sidelined for a minimum of four weeks due to a knee sprain.

This timeline places his earliest possible return in Week 17 when the Chargers face the Patriots, leaving fantasy managers without his services during the most crucial weeks of the fantasy playoffs.

While the team expects Dobbins to be back in time for the NFL playoffs, this news is a major blow for fantasy football teams relying on his powerful rushing ability and touchdown upside.

J.K. Dobbins Placed On IR

Chargers RB J.K. Dobbins (knee) has been placed on IR. Dobbins is dealing with an MCL sprain and will now miss at least the next four games. He'll be eligible to return for Week 17's meeting vs. the Patriots. You could keep Dobbins stashed for t... pic.twitter.com/zHgB2JQ0Px

— Draft Sharks (@DraftSharks) December 1, 2024

Managers will need to look for alternative options as they prepare for the stretch run, as Dobbins’ absence will be felt until late in the fantasy season. Gus Edwards is poised to take on a larger role in the backfield and is a strong waiver wire target for fantasy managers.

Edwards has already demonstrated his ability to handle a significant workload, and with Dobbins out, he becomes the primary option in a solid rushing attack.

While Edwards isn’t known for being a pass-catching back, his goal-line usage and ability to grind out tough yards make him a valuable asset, especially in standard and half-PPR formats.

Given the volume of opportunities he’s likely to see over the next few weeks, Edwards has the potential to provide solid RB2 production and could be a key contributor for fantasy teams looking to navigate the playoff stretch.

🚨 Week 14 Waiver Wire Pickups 🚨

QB:

• Russel Wilson
• Caleb Williams

RB:

• Isaac Guerendo
• Jonathon Brooks
• Jaylen Warren
• Gus Edwards
• Blake Corum

WR:

• MVS
• Elijah Moore
• Adam Thielen
• Nick Westbrook-Ikhine

TE:

• Noah Gray
• Pat…

— JustFantasy (@JustFantasyJF) December 3, 2024