When Kevin Stefanski became the Cleveland Browns head coach in 2020, he was tasked with reviving an underperforming offense and bringing about higher scoring performances. Stefanski initially succeeded by focusing on tight end-heavy offensive strategies that supported the running game, utilizing key players such as Nick Chubb, D’Ernest Johnson, and Kareem Hunt. The Browns’ running attack quickly rose to one of the league’s best, finishing third in rushing yards during Stefanski’s first year.
Stefanski’s efforts led to recognition as NFL Coach of the Year after improving the team’s record and ending a long playoff drought. A strong running back group was central to this transformation. At that time, Chubb’s performance as a versatile and productive back was likened to Hall of Famers such as Emmitt Smith and Barry Sanders.
The roster has since changed. Chubb has moved on from Cleveland after being allowed to seek opportunities elsewhere following a knee injury in 2023. The current roster now lacks a clear primary rusher who can consistently compete among the top performers in the league. Jerome Ford is expected to start at running back, but questions persist about his ability to become a leading force for the offense after producing moderate results when filling in last season.
Dylan Sampson and Quinshon Judkins are also part of the mix at running back, though both face challenges: Sampson is considered more suitable as a complementary player than as a featured back, while Judkins remains unsigned amid recent legal issues and uncertainty around his readiness for regular-season contributions.
Raheim “Rocket” Sanders recently joined from waivers, but concerns exist about his capability against aggressive defenders. Additional depth comes from practice squad additions Ahmani Marshall and Trayveon Williams.
While Cleveland’s offensive line remains mostly intact—considered one of its strengths—the absence of an elite feature running back remains noticeable heading into the new season.
As things stand, questions remain whether any member of the current Browns’ running backs can provide the “something extra” needed for dominance on offense through their ground game.
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