Cleveland Browns rookie running back Quinshon Judkins found himself at the center of a serious legal issue this past weekend, as he was arrested on Saturday, July 12, 2025, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on a domestic violence-related battery charge. The 21-year-old athlete, who was taken into custody by the Broward County Sheriff's Office, remains in jail awaiting his initial court appearance scheduled for Sunday morning, July 13.
The charge against Judkins is listed under Florida statute 784.03 as a first-degree misdemeanor battery, which involves "actually and intentionally touching or striking another person against the will of the other." This offense carries a potential penalty of imprisonment for up to one year and a fine of up to $1,000. As of Saturday night, no bond amount had been set, according to police records.
The Cleveland Browns organization released a statement acknowledging the situation, confirming they are "aware and gathering more information" regarding Judkins’ arrest. A team spokesperson reiterated the Browns’ position, emphasizing they are monitoring the developing situation closely.
Judkins, selected 36th overall in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft, was one of seven players drafted by the Browns this year and notably the only one who has yet to sign his rookie contract. Reports suggest that contract negotiations remain unresolved, particularly over guaranteed money. The rest of the Browns’ rookie class is expected to report for training camp on Friday, July 18, while veterans will follow on Tuesday, July 22.
Before turning professional, Judkins had a standout college career, especially during his final season at Ohio State, where he transferred from Ole Miss ahead of the 2024 season. He played a crucial role in leading the Buckeyes to their first College Football Playoff national championship since 2014, a victory secured with a 34-23 win over Notre Dame in January 2025.
In that championship game, Judkins delivered a remarkable performance, rushing for 100 yards and scoring two touchdowns. Over the course of the 16-game season, he amassed 1,060 rushing yards and 14 rushing touchdowns on 194 carries, while also contributing 161 receiving yards and two receiving touchdowns on 22 receptions. Across his three collegiate seasons at Ole Miss and Ohio State, Judkins accumulated an impressive total of 3,785 rushing yards and 45 touchdowns.
Judkins was expected to compete for the Browns’ lead running back position this season, especially following the departure of veteran Nick Chubb in free agency. The Browns drafted Judkins alongside Tennessee’s Dylan Sampson to bolster their backfield, and he was projected to receive a significant share of the carries in Cleveland’s offense. His dynamic running style and proven production at the collegiate level made him a promising addition to the team’s backfield corps, alongside Jerome Ford.
However, Judkins’ arrest raises questions about his immediate future with the Browns and potentially the NFL at large. The league’s personal conduct policy could come into play, subjecting Judkins to disciplinary measures depending on the outcome of legal proceedings. This incident marks a critical moment early in his professional career, with significant implications both on and off the field.
As the Browns prepare for training camp, the team faces the challenge of addressing this unexpected development while maintaining focus on the upcoming season. The organization’s statement underscores a cautious approach, emphasizing the need to gather all pertinent information before making further decisions. Meanwhile, Judkins’ legal situation remains unresolved, with his court appearance set to provide more clarity on the charges and possible next steps.
This situation also highlights the broader pressures and scrutiny faced by young athletes transitioning from collegiate success to the professional stage. Judkins’ promising football trajectory now faces an uncertain path as legal and contractual matters intertwine. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the Browns and the NFL respond to this incident, and what it might mean for Judkins’ role on the team and his career moving forward.
For now, the Browns’ rookie running back remains in custody, and the team’s focus is split between supporting their player and upholding organizational standards. The upcoming days will be critical, as Judkins’ court appearance and any subsequent legal actions will likely shape the narrative around his future in professional football.
As training camp approaches, the Browns will need to navigate this complex situation carefully, balancing the potential impact on team dynamics and public perception. Judkins’ arrest adds a layer of uncertainty to an already competitive position battle in Cleveland’s backfield, and the organization’s response will be closely scrutinized by fans and the media alike.
In the meantime, the Browns continue to prepare for the new season, with their rookie class eager to make an impression. Judkins’ arrest casts a shadow over those preparations, leaving unanswered questions about his availability and status. The legal process will unfold in the coming weeks, with the Browns and the NFL watching closely to determine appropriate actions.
Ultimately, this incident serves as a reminder of the challenges professional athletes can face off the field, and the importance of accountability and support within sports organizations. The Browns’ handling of Judkins’ case will set a tone for how such matters are addressed moving forward, both for the team and the league.
