Dawgs By Nature
The Browns are in need of another back this year
The Cleveland Browns have lived and died with the run game. Or, at least they did. Recently, not so much. Starter Nick Chubb destroyed his knee in 2023 and since then the rushing attack has fallen off. Will the offense once again become a running juggernaut? Or will the passing game become their focus?
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In any regard, every team must be able to run the football. And to do this, you need a capable back. Will Chubb return in 2025? If so, will he pick up where he left off, or be a symbolic signing but receive minimal snaps?
The Browns will need to draft a running back this year if they don’t dip into free agency. D’Onta Foreman won’t be back, and that may be Chubb’s fate as well. Jerome Ford is serviceable, but not a home run threat. Pierre Strong is a capable RB3 and Nyheim Hines hasn’t seen the field yet.
At the Reese’s Senior Bowl, there are several capable bodies. DBN’s Barry Shuck interviewed two possible running backs for the Browns to consider:
Q: What will NFL teams immediately notice about your playing skills?
A: Versatility. A guy who can come in, run hard, catch passes, and be a good blocker when called to stay in the pocket. They know I can run the ball, but you have to show your catching ability. I can play offense 100 miles an hour and then line up on special teams and at the same time be a leader.
Q: NFL teams put a lot of time and money into scouting players. How would their money be well-spent on you?
A: Just staying at the hard work part. You can always get better every day and you can go out and translate that to the NFL. It’s the little things. Spend the time in the weight room is another key.
Q: How did you find out about your invite to the Senior Bowl?
A: Right after one practice I got my invitation. Once practice wrapped up, my coach handed me the invite in the meeting room. I couldn’t believe it. It was a dream come true and exciting. I‘ve always wanted to go to the Senior Bowl. I’ve been watching the game on TV for a long time. I spoke with my family about it and they were all excited about the opportunity.
Q: After you score your first NFL touchdown, have you prepared a special dance celebration?
A: I don’t really celebrate. I can’t dance. I just basically give praise through my actions and honor God and give him thanks. Then I am just going to run back to the sidelines.
Q: Is it important for you to start your rookie season?
A: I wouldn’t say it is...
