What's Happening?
The Cleveland Browns have signed Quinshon Judkins, their second-round pick from the 2025 NFL Draft, after battery charges against him were dropped. Judkins, a former standout at Ohio State and Ole Miss, was arrested in July for an alleged domestic violence incident in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The state attorney's office decided not to pursue charges due to insufficient evidence and witnesses. Despite the legal resolution, the NFL is still investigating the incident. Judkins will not play in the Browns' season opener against the Cincinnati Bengals, but he has been granted a two-game roster exemption, allowing him to practice without being counted on the 53-man roster.
Why It's Important?
The signing of Judkins is significant for the Browns as they look to bolster their running back position following the departure of Nick Chubb to the Houston Texans. Judkins, who had an impressive college career with over 1,000 rushing yards in his final season at Ohio State, is expected to be a key contributor to the Browns' offense. However, the ongoing NFL investigation could impact his availability and the team's plans. The situation highlights the challenges NFL teams face in managing player conduct issues and the potential impact on team dynamics and performance.
What's Next?
Judkins will need to complete a ramp-up period before he can play, and his debut could be delayed beyond Week 2. The NFL's investigation may result in a suspension under the personal conduct policy, which could further affect his playing time. The Browns will rely on Jerome Ford and rookie Dylan Sampson in the interim. The team may have included protective language in Judkins' contract to address potential suspensions, similar to their approach with Deshaun Watson.
