ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — The Broncos have designated running back J.K. Dobbins for return from injured reserve ahead of Sunday's AFC Championship Game, the team announced Monday.

Denver also signed quarterback Ben DiNucci to the practice squad and released defensive end Garrett Nelson from the practice squad.

Dobbins, who has been on injured reserve since suffering an injury in a Week 10 win over the Raiders, can now practice with the team ahead of Sunday's matchup with the Patriots.

Despite missing the Broncos' final seven games of the season, Dobbins finished the season as Denver's leading rusher with 772 yards. The veteran player averaged 5.0 yards per carry and added four touchdowns on the ground. Dobbins posted a pair of 100-yard games this season and recorded at least 60 rushing yards in nine of his 10 games.

Denver has designated eight of a possible 10 players for return from injured reserve. The Broncos previously designated defensive tackle Malcolm Roach, linebacker Dre Greenlaw, former linebacker Garret Wallow, guard Ben Powers, inside linebacker Karene Reid, linebacker Drew Sanders and tight end Lucas Krull for return from IR.

DiNucci, who appeared in three games and started a contest for the Cowboys in 2020, returns to Denver after spending the 2023 season with the Broncos. DiNucci has competed with the Bills, Saints and Falcons since his stint with the Broncos. In 2023, DiNucci led the XFL in completions and passing yards and ranked second in touchdown passes.