Dobbins Lands in Denver Amidst CBA Controversy
Broncos Add Running Back, Chargers’ Tender Strategy Questioned
The Denver Broncos are poised to add former Baltimore Raven **J.K. Dobbins** to their roster, a move complicated by the unusual application of a rarely-used free agency tender by the Chargers. The situation highlights potential loopholes within the NFL’s Collective Bargaining Agreement.
Payton Remains Tight-Lipped
**Sean Payton**, head coach of the Broncos, addressed reporters Tuesday but offered little clarity regarding the signing. “I’m not going to answer to any reports,”
**Payton** stated. “I think we’re close. I’ll tell you tomorrow.”
A formal announcement and potential press conference with **Dobbins** are expected Wednesday.
The Chargers’ decision to apply the unrestricted free agent tender wasn’t intended to retain **Dobbins**, especially after acquiring **Najee Harris** and drafting **Omarion Hampton** in the first round. Instead, the move aimed to preserve the possibility of receiving a compensatory draft pick when **Dobbins** inevitably signed elsewhere.
Financial Implications and CBA Concerns
To minimize the impact on compensatory pick calculations for both the Chargers and the Broncos, **Dobbins**’s contract with Denver is reportedly valued at $2.065 million. He likely would have commanded a higher salary had the Chargers not utilized the UFA tender strategy. According to Spotrac, the average running back salary in 2024 is approximately $4.2 million. Spotrac – NFL Running Back Salaries
While teams are within their rights under the CBA to leverage these mechanisms, the situation raises questions about fairness. The application of the tender ultimately disadvantaged **Dobbins** in negotiations. The move underscores a growing sentiment that if teams can fully exploit CBA provisions, players should have the same latitude.
The Broncos hope **Dobbins** can contribute to their running game, but the circumstances surrounding his arrival have sparked debate about the ethical boundaries of roster management within the NFL’s complex CBA framework.
