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J.K. Dobbins 2022 NFL Player Outlook: Success Hinges On Health
3 years agoBaltimore Ravens running back J.K. Dobbins exemplifies the team's culture of toughness and tenacity, which they build into their punishing run game. As a rookie in 2020, he finished as the RB22, with 134 carries for 805 yards and nine touchdowns, adding 18 receptions for 120 receiving yards. The 23-year-old was explosive, averaging six yards per attempt, and primed for a promising 2021 season with the opportunity to take on a more prominent role. Unfortunately, this promise was derailed by an ACL tear in pre-season, ending his chance to unlock his potential. While every individual is different, the timing of the injury provides him with a full year to recover and be ready for Week 1, which most injury experts believe is sufficient. Despite losing Dobbins, Gus Edwards, and Justice Hill for the season, along with Lamar Jackson for part of the season, the Ravens continued to prioritize their running game, rushing the ball 30.4 times per game, ranking third in the NFL. Combine this with back-to-back league-leading seasons in 2019 and 2020, and it becomes clear the Ravens' game plan is to pound the rock. Health and ADP will be essential to monitor because Dobbins is currently ranked 17th in Rotoballer's rankings with an ADP of 55 overall, which is too low for the lead back on the league's best rushing attack. Expect his ADP to increase, but once his health is confirmed, he warrants consideration as a top 15 back, drafted as one of the top 30 players overall.
