Former NFL doctor weighs in on JK Dobbins injury

Baltimore Ravens running back JK Dobbins was carted off the field after suffering an apparent leg injury during the first series of Saturday’s preseason finale. While the extent of the injury is unclear, multiple reports came out saying the former Ohio State star was struggling to put weight on his leg. His teammates huddled around the Ravens’ starter to show support.

David J. Chao, a former NFL head team doctor with more than 17 years of experience, runs profootballdoc.com, which evaluates injuries based on past experience and video evidence, along with notable reports.

“J.K. Dobbins, the Ravens’ second-year running back suffered a hyperextended left knee in the first quarter of the team’s third preseason game.” Chao wrote in his initial report. “Dobbins was carted off the field after a shoulder to the knee and did not put any weight on his left leg. According to limited video from only one angle, he appears to have suffered a direct blow to the front of his knee, causing a hyperextension with bone bruise, which would mean missing about the first month of the season.”

He continued: “The worst-case scenario is that he suffered a severe hyperextension with a ligament tear, which could potentially knock him out for the season. At this point, he has a significant left knee injury, but we would need further angles and information to decipher.”

According to the report, Dobbins could miss the first four weeks of the regular season. That would take him out for the season opener on the road against the Las Vegas Raiders and a week two meeting with the Kansas City Chiefs. He would also miss games road games against the Detroit Lions and Denver Broncos.

As Chao notes, the video evidence is limited, and further reports will confirm the severity of the injury.

JK Dobbins poised for breakout season

After his rookie campaign, the Ravens were counting on a breakout season for Dobbins in 2021.

Dobbins finished last season with 805 yards and nine touchdowns in 2020 after establishing himself as the feature back. He overtook veterans Mark Ingram II and Gus Edwards on the depth chart.

The second year running back looked good on two early carries, displaying burst and shiftiness. He gained 15 yards, including a 10-yard rush to open the Ravens’ first drive.

It would be a blow for the Ravens’ run-heavy offense if starter JK Dobbins misses significant time with an injury. Gus Edwards and Justice Hill are also options in the Ravens backfield.