The Commanders, fresh off a thrilling NFC championship game run led by breakout QB Jayden Daniels, are gearing up for an even more explosive offense this season. With a dynamic duo in the running back room featuring Austin Ekeler and Brian Robinson Jr., their ground game is a force to be reckoned with. However, there’s a twist in the plot.

Both Ekeler and Robinson are dealing with injuries and nearing the end of their contracts. Now, who could fill their shoes? The Commanders have someone in mind. And it’s about to shake up the entire league.

On Monday, rumors started swirling about the Commanders potentially showing interest in former Chargers running back JK Dobbins. ESPN’s Matt Bowen already tagged Washington as an ideal landing spot for the 26-year-old. And NFL Rumors took to their X page to claim, “NFL RUMORS: #Commanders have interest in #Chargers JK Dobbins.” So, let’s dig into it—does Dobbins make sense for the Commanders?

First off, Dobbins is coming off an impressive season with the Chargers. Despite missing four games with an MCL sprain, he recorded a career-high 905 rushing yards and tied his personal best with nine touchdowns. Injury concerns remain, but his on-field production is hard to ignore. Last season, he played on a bargain deal worth around $1 million. That was an excellent value for a player of his caliber. If he’s available at a similar price, he’s worth a look.

Injuries may make teams hesitant. However, a healthy JK Dobbins performs at a high level. He showed last season that he can produce No. 1 running back numbers. In Washington, a reduced role would allow him to stay healthier, as they expect Brian Robinson Jr. to be the lead back and wouldn’t require Dobbins to carry the full workload. Less wear and tear could lead to more explosive plays.

Now, imagine a backfield with Robinson, JK Dobbins, and Austin Ekeler. That trio could rival any rushing unit in the league in talent and versatility. Still, relying on multiple injury-prone players carries risk. But if it pays off, Washington could field one of the most dynamic backfields in recent memory.

If Dan Quinn makes a move for Dobbins, it would signal a long-term strategy—hoping to secure at least one consistent standout for 2025. In shaping the offense around Jayden Daniels, Quinn has already parted ways with five players, showing he’s serious about building the right core.

Dann Quinn’s potential five cuts for the Commanders

Jayden Daniels’s Commanders are embracing competition heading into the 2025 season—and no one embodies that mindset more than head coach Dan Quinn. With a retooled roster and several key free agents retained by GM Adam Peters, the stakes are clearly higher. Naturally, that means some tough roster cuts are coming.

One potential cut is defensive lineman Sheldon Day. While his production last season was serviceable, he struggled with consistency against the run and doesn’t offer much as a pass rusher. Unless he shows major improvement this summer, he’s unlikely to stick around.

Cornerback Kevon Seymour is also on the bubble. He rotated in and out of the lineup last year and hasn’t shown enough to secure a spot. With Washington aggressively upgrading its secondary to counter 2025’s tough passing matchups, Seymour will need to make a big leap to stay on the roster.

Potential target for Jaden Daniels, WR K.J. Osborn, may also be at risk. This offseason, the team signed him to a one-year deal, primarily for depth. While he has a chance to prove himself in camp, his future with the team is far from secure.

Offensive lineman Chris Paul finds himself in a precarious spot. The loss of Sam Cosmi for most or all of the season might give Paul a temporary lifeline. But without that development, his position would be even more vulnerable.

Lastly, running back Jeremy McNichols signed a one-year deal. He currently sits third on the depth chart. However, his status depends largely on how quickly Emari Demercado or Croskey-Merritt develops. Also, how many backs the team keeps for the regular season.

Ultimately, these decisions will come down to Dan Quinn. His choices will offer a clear glimpse into how the Commanders plan to compete—and evolve—as they head into 2025.