Nick Chubb’s days in Cleveland appear to be numbered.
The Cleveland Browns took a significant step toward reshaping their backfield this offseason, and it’s a move that could ultimately push franchise icon Nick Chubb out of the picture.
Jerome Ford Agrees to Pay Cut
Running back Jerome Ford has agreed to a restructured deal, reducing his salary from $3.486 million to a guaranteed $1.75 million, according to multiple reports. The pay cut strengthens Ford’s chances of remaining with the team and competing for carries next season.
Ford has spent the past three seasons in Cleveland and has played a meaningful role in the offense over the last two. He’s rushed for 1,390 yards and seven touchdowns during his time with the Browns — solid production, though marked by some inconsistency.
Still, Cleveland clearly isn’t content with the status quo. The front office prioritized the running back position in the NFL Draft, selecting Quinshon Judkins at No. 36 overall and adding Dylan Sampson in the fourth round. Judkins, in particular, is seen as a potential long-term lead back, instantly intensifying the competition for snaps.
Nick Chubb’s Return Now Unlikely
With Ford staying — and at a reduced price — Chubb’s return now seems increasingly unlikely. According to Mary Kay Cabot of cleveland.com, the outcome of Ford’s contract negotiations played a major role in Chubb’s chances of rejoining the team.
“Nick Chubb will likely have to find a new home now that fellow running back Jerome Ford has accepted a pay cut,” Cabot reported. “The Browns are excited about their two rookie backs, and don’t want to make Chubb the fourth back on the team behind them and Ford.”
While general manager Andrew Berry didn’t completely close the door on a reunion, he acknowledged that the team’s outlook at the position has shifted.
“I’d say not necessarily, but the complexion of our running back room has changed this weekend,” Berry said when asked about Chubb’s future.
Chubb Still Working Toward a Comeback
Chubb’s uncertain free agency status has largely been tied to his recent injury history. The Pro Bowl back has finished each of the last two seasons on injured reserve.
In Week 2 of the 2023 season, Chubb suffered a devastating knee injury against the Steelers, tearing both the ACL and MCL in his left knee. The injury required two surgeries and raised questions about his long-term viability as an NFL running back.
Despite returning briefly last season, his comeback was again derailed in Week 15, when he fractured his foot against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Still, Chubb has shown no signs of giving up. He’s shared recent workout footage showcasing his strength, explosiveness, and determination to return at full strength. In the clips, Chubb can be seen clearing hurdles and executing power cleans, demonstrating the trademark power and balance that made him a fan favorite.
For now, the future remains uncertain — but one thing is clear: Nick Chubb is not done yet.