As OTAs begin across the NFL, running back Nick Chubb remains among the best available free agents at the position, and it doesn’t sound like the Cleveland Browns are in much of a hurry to try to bring him back.
Chubb, 29, has battled through numerous significant injuries in recent years, including a season-ending foot injury suffered in Week 15 of the 2024 campaign that came after a significant knee injury that ended his 2023 campaign in Week 2 against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
However, despite his 2024 season being cut short, Chubb still managed 332 rushing yards and three touchdowns in eight games. Chubb’s next carry, though, will likely come elsewhere.
Cleveland Browns Distance Themselves from Nick Chubb
Browns general manager Andrew Berry signaled that Cleveland isn’t in a rush to re-sign Chubb, at this point.
“I wouldn’t rule anything out, but I would say it’s probably increasingly unlikely,” Berry said in a Friday interview with Ken Carman and Anthony Lima on Cleveland’s 92.3 The Fan. “We do have two young guys that we like. We think Jerome plays a role. It’s basically kind of maybe seeing how the roles shake out in the running backs room.”
Originally chosen by the Browns in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft, Chubb has rushed for 6,843 yards with 51 touchdowns, while averaging 5.1 yards per carry, so far in his career.
Given Chubb’s stature in the Browns’ organization and Cleveland’s current running back situation, Berry didn’t completely slam the door on a reunion, but it sure sounds like the Browns are looking to get younger at the position this fall.
“Look, you’re never going to rule out someone as near and dear to our heart as Nick,” Berry said. “And I would expect him to take another step, being another year removed from the injury. But I’d say maybe a return is less likely — at least in the short term — with us right now.”
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