What's Happening?
Dylan Sampson, a fourth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, made his debut as a starter for the Cleveland Browns in their preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams. During the game, Sampson carried the ball twice for a total of three yards and caught one pass for 14 yards. The Browns secured a narrow 19-17 victory over the Rams. Sampson shared the backfield duties with Jerome Ford during the initial drives of the game before being substituted. This arrangement is expected to continue into the regular season, although the exact distribution of playing time between Sampson and Ford remains uncertain. Additionally, Quinshon Judkins, a second-round pick who has not yet signed with the Browns due to off-field issues, could potentially join the backfield later in the season.
Why It's Important?
Sampson's performance in the preseason is crucial for the Browns as they evaluate their backfield options ahead of the regular season. With the departure of key players in previous seasons, the Browns are looking to solidify their running game, and Sampson's role could be significant. His ability to adapt and perform under pressure will be closely monitored by the coaching staff. The potential addition of Quinshon Judkins adds another layer of complexity to the team's strategy, as his eventual signing could alter the dynamics of the backfield. The Browns' success in managing these transitions will be vital for their competitiveness in the upcoming NFL season.
What's Next?
As the regular season approaches, the Browns will continue to assess their roster and make strategic decisions regarding player roles. The coaching staff will likely experiment with different backfield combinations during the remaining preseason games to determine the most effective lineup. The situation with Quinshon Judkins will also be a point of focus, as resolving his contract issues could provide the team with additional depth. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how these developments unfold and impact the Browns' performance in the regular season.
