Nick Chubb was the Cleveland Browns ' leading rusher each season from 2018 to 2022. Jerome Ford took over leading rushing duties last year, and after the Browns selected Quinshon Judkins in the second round, Cleveland didn't feel it was necessary to retain Chubb, so he signed with the Houston Texans .
However, the circumstances surrounding Judkins have changed since the Browns made him the 36th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Namely, because the former Ohio State Buckeyes running back was arrested on July 12 and charged with domestic assault and battery.
Interestingly enough, the Browns have yet to sign Judkins to his rookie contract, which means he won't be participating in training camp when rookies report on July 18. Which, according to Cleveland.com's Browns expert Mary Kay Cabot , the team is in "no rush" to sign Judkins to his contract after his recent arrest.
Moreso, the Browns have "stressed" that Judkins makes his domestic incident the highest priority over football right now.
"But the Browns are taking their time investigating what transpired between Judkins, 21, and his then-girlfriend, before they turn their attention to getting him signed and on the football field. The woman told Fort Lauderdale police that he punched her in the mouth/chin area with a closed fist, and that she was still in pain with visible bruises five days later when she reported the incident."
Last year, Browns second-round pick Mike Hall Jr, also from Ohio State, was placed on paid leave after his domestic violence incident. Yet, his situation was different, since he had already signed his rookie contract with the Browns.
In addition to Ford, the Browns also have rookie fourth-round selection Dylan Sampson , Pierre Strong , and Ahmani Marshall competing for snaps at running back. Though, depending on the status of Judkins, they may want to consider adding another rusher before camp opens.
Related: Betting Market Predicts Shedeur Sanders' Place in Cleveland Browns' QB Competition
Related Headlines
