The Cleveland Browns are at a pivotal crossroads as they approach the 2025 NFL Draft, a moment that could define their trajectory for the upcoming season. With key decisions looming in free agency, including the future of star running back Nick Chubb, the team's strategies are under scrutiny. Chubb, a fan favorite known for his powerful running style, is currently a free agent after the Browns allowed him to enter the market. Despite his previous accolades, including four Pro Bowl selections and a reputation as one of the league's best rushers, his recent injury history casts a shadow over his future with the team.
Chubb's career took a significant hit when he suffered a gruesome knee injury in Week 2 of the 2023 season against the Pittsburgh Steelers. This injury not only sidelined him for the remainder of that season but also hindered his performance upon his return. In 2024, Chubb rushed for only 332 yards on 102 carries, averaging a disappointing 3.3 yards per carry, a stark contrast to his career average of 5.2 yards. He managed to score three touchdowns, but this tally was far below his usual output, as he had never previously finished a season with fewer than eight rushing touchdowns.
In a recent Instagram post, Chubb expressed his determination to return to form, stating, "They’ve already wrote my ending when I’m just getting started." This message, accompanied by images of him squatting over 600 pounds, showcases his resolve to overcome the challenges posed by his injuries. Yet, the lack of interest from teams, including the Browns, raises questions about his marketability. As the draft approaches, many speculate that teams might wait until after the event to sign Chubb, primarily due to the implications of compensatory draft picks.
According to reports from Tony Grossi, even if the Browns were to re-sign Chubb, it might come with a caveat: he would likely have to accept a lesser role as the team seeks to inject more explosiveness into their running game. Grossi noted, "The Browns want to get fresher and more explosive at the lead running back position. That doesn’t mean they wouldn’t bring back Chubb, but it means he would have to accept a lesser role with a commensurate salary." This sentiment reflects the organization’s desire to adapt and evolve, particularly as they look to solidify their squad for a competitive future.
With the NFL Draft just around the corner, the Browns are also considering their options for a new running back. PFF’s Mason Cameron has suggested that the Browns could target Arizona State standout Cam Skattebo on Day 2 of the draft. Cameron remarked, "Cleveland has struggled to find a workhorse back to lean on since Nick Chubb’s devastating knee injury. Skattebo would undoubtedly fill the void." Skattebo, who averaged an impressive 5.8 yards per carry in his final college season, racked up 1,711 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns, showcasing both his running and receiving capabilities.
As the Browns navigate these decisions, they find themselves in a delicate balancing act. On one hand, they have a player like Chubb, who has a storied history with the franchise and is beloved by fans. On the other, they face the pressing need to revamp their roster to remain competitive in a tough AFC North division. The current running back room features Jerome Ford and Pierre Strong Jr., but many believe that adding a dynamic player like Skattebo could be instrumental in revitalizing the offense.
Chubb’s past performance speaks volumes about his potential value. Over his first five seasons, he amassed 6,341 rushing yards on 1,210 attempts, maintaining a career average of 5.2 yards per carry and scoring 48 touchdowns. His run success rate, however, plummeted to a career-worst 41.2% last season, raising concerns about whether he can regain his previous form. The Browns' decision-makers are undoubtedly weighing the risks and rewards of both retaining Chubb and pursuing new talent.
As the draft date approaches, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the Browns will address their running back situation. Will they opt to bring back a beloved player who has faced significant adversity, or will they choose to invest in a promising rookie who could lead the team into a new era? The answers to these questions will not only shape the Browns' immediate future but also set the tone for their long-term strategy.
In a league where the running back position is evolving, the Browns' choices could reverberate throughout the organization. With the NFL Draft looming, all eyes will be on Cleveland as they make critical decisions that could redefine their identity on the field. As fans hold their breath, the fate of Nick Chubb and the direction of the Browns hang in the balance, making this offseason one of the most intriguing in recent memory.
