Browns and RB are in a “hairy” situation.

admin | December 2, 2023 | Other Clubs | No Comments

The Cleveland Browns’ predicament with Pro Bowl running back Nick Chubb is getting out of hand.

After sustaining a season-ending injury in Week 2 against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Chubb is sidelined for the entire year. Chubb, 27, required two surgeries to fix his knee, with the most recent one taking place on November 14.

Without any baggage, Chubb has been the team’s engine, performing on the field. From the time Chubb was selected in the second round in 2018 to the present, the Browns have placed a great deal of reliance on him. Last season, he ran for 1,525 yards and 12 touchdowns. He had over 1,000 yards of rushing for the fourth straight season, and his career 5.3 yards per carry ranks among the best in the league.

He is a fan favorite, and many people hope that he will never play another NFL uniform. However, as Zac Jackson of The Athletic noted, the figures as of right now might make it difficult. Jackson made a possible fix pitch.

On the podcast “Civilized Barking,” Jackson stated, “Nick has no guaranteed money but his cap number is $16 million and it would be $4 million in dead money to cut him.” “I believe a revised contract would be the solution with both Nick and Jack Conklin.”

Browns Expect Nick Chubb Back Next Season

The Browns insist that they expect Chubb to be a member of the team the following season. However, many questions remain after significant knee surgery.

“Try to imagine that Nick Chubb will come back to assist you in October or November of next year. Evidently, that’s what everyone desires,” Jackson remarked. But since we don’t know if this squad will need the money, things could become hairy. Nick Chubb underwent two significant knee replacements. Only a few months ago was the second one.

In addition, Chubb’s cause is hampered by the weak running back market. The Browns had to make a decision regarding Chubb’s future even prior to his injury. With the difficult circumstances facing running backs, he looked set to be an anomaly, but the injury now casts doubt on his future.

With the Browns, Chubb agreed to a three-year, $36.6 million contract in 2021, making him, very reasonably, one of the highest-paid running backs in the NFL. Although a restructured contract isn’t what he probably had in mind going into the season, it would allow Chubb to demonstrate his continued ability.

Jerome Ford Stepping Up For Browns

Chubb has visited various parts of the facility and traveled with the Browns to the West Coast. He has had the opportunity to coach Jerome Ford, the Browns’ main back who has taken the responsibility.

Ford is the team leader in yards (628), carries (145), and receiving yards (163) from 27 receptions. In all, he has five touchdowns.

“He’s definitely matured.” On Thursday, November 30, Browns offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt said, “I’m really proud of his efforts and his ability to run the ball.” He has scored some huge runs for us; his three ten-yard runs last week were excellent. Every day, he takes the same strategy. He has excellent leadership in the room, in my opinion, along with Stump Mitchell and other outstanding professionals. Since Nick Chubb is present, he is aware of the necessary preparations and what to expect on game day.

For the Browns, Pierre Strong Jr. and Kareem Hunt have also contributed. With 139.5 team running yards per game, Cleveland is third in the league.