The Denver Broncos are entering the 2025 NFL season with a reinforced roster and heightened expectations. After a postseason appearance in 2024, general manager George Payton signed two former San Francisco 49ers, linebacker Dre Greenlaw and safety Talanoa Hufanga, to three-year deals worth $35 million and $39 million, respectively.
Both former 49ers bring Pro Bowl credentials and playoff experience to a defense that already ranked third in points per game allowed (18.3) last season.
With second-year quarterback Bo Nix, 25, looking to build on a successful rookie campaign, Denver has positioned itself as a team to watch in the AFC.
But the most notable addition came later in free agency — one that could reshape the Broncos’ offensive identity.
J.K. Dobbins runs the ball against the New Orleans Saints
J.K. Dobbins runs the ball against the New Orleans Saints.
Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
That move was the signing of 26-year-old running back J.K. Dobbins, who joins Denver after a bounce-back season with the Los Angeles Chargers.
“I felt like it was the best fit for me,” Dobbins said. “Defense is really good, like super good. Quarterback's amazing. I like the RB room. O-line is amazing as well. So, it was a no-brainer... I also heard that it's a good fan base. So that's why I'm here.”
A former Ohio State star and 2020 second-round pick, he’s totaled 2,252 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns across 37 career games, averaging an impressive 5.2 yards per carry.
Dobbins rushed for 905 yards and nine touchdowns in 2024, ranking 22nd and 14th in the league, respectively. It marked a full-circle return after an Achilles tear in 2023, a setback that had cast doubt on his long-term explosiveness.