Former Broncos RB Melvin Gordon Discusses NFL Return originally appeared on Athlon Sports. Just under one-and-a-half years have passed since former Denver Broncos running back Melvin Gordon last saw action in an NFL game.

The Denver Broncos have announced the signing of superstar running back JK Dobbins on a one-year deal worth over $5 million.

Dobbins agreed to a one-year, $5.25 million contract with the Broncos in free agency, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport. Dobbins, 26, spent four years with the Baltimore Ravens before signing a one-year deal with the Chargers ahead of the 2024 season.

Former Denver Broncos running back Melvin Gordon, who last played for the Baltimore Ravens in 2023, did not sound very optimistic about a potential comeback during an interview on FanDuel TV’s Up & Adams show two weeks ago.

CINCINNATI, OH - DECEMBER 28 - Denver Broncos cornerback Pat Surtain II (2) covers Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase (1) in a game between the Denver Broncos and the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium on Saturday, December 28, 2024. / Jeff Moreland / IMAGO / Icon Sportswire

In only his second NFL season, Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix is already considered to be a dark horse candidate for Most Valuable Player.

Dobbins joins a crowded backfield that features rookie RB RJ Harvey, who was drafted in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Harvey was expected to lead the backfield in front of Audric Estimé and Jaleel McLaughlin.

The 25-year-old joined Denver's practice squad late in his rookie season in 2022 and scored a 24-yard touchdown catch on his first career touch in the NFL. He then impressed during training camp in 2023, but an injury derailed his chances of getting off the practice squad onto the active roster in his second season.