The Cleveland Browns are in a very unique position when it comes to the upcoming NFL trade deadline. Not only is their roster full of players about to enter free agency, but the team has a bye week prior to the deadline, and a win in Week 8 could turn sellers into buyers, or at least a team that will hold onto their assets.
After Browns GM Andrew Berry traded away QB Joe Flacco and flipped CB Greg Newsome II for CB Tyson Campbell (both deals led to victories in Week 7), “more trades are coming” was
the rumor out of Cleveland. Interestingly, running backs seem to be one of the priorities around the NFL heading into the trade deadline.
Interestingly, of the Top 25 players who could be on the move, according to ESPN, RB Jerome Ford is the only Browns player listed:
The buzz: The youth movement is ongoing in Cleveland, where Quinshon Judkins is featured in the backfield. The Browns are open to dealing Ford, who has 1,463 career rushing yards and 12 scrimmage touchdowns. The tailback market hasn’t intensified, though. Teams with needs at the position haven’t been overly active — at least not yet. — Fowler
The tape: Ford is a strong runner with explosive straight-line speed, and he also can produce numbers as a receiver. Ford had 36 rushes of 10 or more yards across 2023 and 2024, and he has 101 career receptions in four seasons. Ford fits best as a rotational back. — Bowen
Predicted chance of getting traded: 35%
Team fits: Los Angeles Chargers, New England Patriots, Houston Texans
Ford is one of only two running backs on the list, with New York Jets RB Breece Hall ranked third by ESPN. Baltimore Ravens RB Keaton Mitchell is the lone back to make the honorable mentions list.
For the Browns, Ford continues to be the choice on third downs and clear passing situations. With rookies in the three other running back spots on the depth chart, HC Kevin Stefanski has opted to trust the veteran when pass protection is needed from the position.
The 2025 NFL trade deadline passes on Tuesday, November 4th at 4 PM Eastern. Expect rumors to pick up greatly following the completion of Week 8 games.
