Jerome Ford

Sampson (5'8/200) totaled both the fourth-most offensive touches (278) and missed tackles forced (83) among Power Five running backs last season, despite his compact frame. He is not guaranteed a year one role with Quinshon Judkins set to start and Jerome Ford still in-house but Sampson should be on re-draft radars as a player to watch in training camp. The Browns announced Sampson's signing in conjunction with second-round pick LB Carson Schwesinger. Per NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, Schwesinger became just "the second second-round pick in NFL history to have a fully guaranteed deal."

Berry stopped short of officially ruling out a reunion, saying the Browns are "never going to rule out someone as near and dear to our heart" as Chubb, but a "return is less likely, at least in the short term." Berry intends to see "how the roles shake out in the running back room" with rookies Quinshon Judkins and Dylan Sampson joining veteran Jerome Ford, who the Browns think "plays a role." Judkins currently slots in as Chubb's early-down replacement and Sampson profiles as Ford's long-term backup as a rotation rusher and passing-down specialist. Per ESPN's Daniel Oyefusi, Berry encouragingly said, "Chubb's broken foot has healed and is not a concern," so Chubb should be able to pass a physical if another team comes calling.

Jerome Ford saw the Browns make a pair of running back additions during the draft, something which may have opened the door to a trade taking place. Instead, the three-year veteran will remain in Cleveland for 2025. Ford has agreed to a pay cut, Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com reports. The 25-year-old was on track to […]

Entering the final year of his rookie deal, Ford was set to earn up to $3.4 million in 2025. Now, the fourth-year vet will get a guaranteed $1.75 million this season and likely has his roster spot secured for the year. The signing, as Browns beat writer Mary Kay Cabot pointed out, likely spells the end for Nick Chubb's time with the Browns. In addition to Ford, the Browns also have rookies Quinshon Judkins and Dylan Sampson on the roster, who could have a chance to step in as the team's top two backs this season. Chubb recently posted a workout video online, likely to generate interest after remaining unsigned through the NFL Draft, but any hopes of a return to Cleveland can likely be put aside at this time. Chubb struggled last season after returning from a devastating knee injury that ended his 2023 campaign. The 29-year-old vet rushed 102 times for 332 yards and three scores while averaging a career-worst 3.3 YPC. Chubb may need to sign a one-year team friendly deal if he hopes to play anywhere in 2025.

The Browns are keeping one of their veteran running backs around with a pay cut, which could decrease the likelihood of re-signing another at the position.