The Cleveland Browns selected running back Quinshon Judkins with the 36th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, signaling a clear intention to revitalize their struggling run game. After a disappointing 2024 season where they ranked 29th in the league with an average of just 94.6 rushing yards per game, the Browns are looking to Judkins to provide an immediate impact.

Judkins: A Physical Force for the AFC North

Browns Assistant General Manager and Vice President of Player Personnel Glenn Cook emphasized the team’s excitement about Judkins’ potential fit.”He brings the brand of football that we want, AFC North ‘back,'” Cook said.”Exceptionally strong, physical, tough, productive three-down guy. I know (running backs coach) Duce (Staley) is extremely excited.” The Browns clearly envision Judkins as a key component in establishing a more dominant rushing attack, a customary hallmark of triumphant teams within the AFC North.

Judkins’ college career showcased his ability to thrive in demanding environments. He spent two seasons at Ole Miss, accumulating impressive statistics. He followed that with a transfer to Ohio State for the 2024 season, maintaining a high level of performance.

College Career Highlights

During his time at Ole Miss, Judkins established himself as one of the SEC’s premier running backs. He amassed 545 carries for 2,725 rushing yards and 31 touchdowns, adding 37 receptions for 281 receiving yards and three touchdowns. His freshman year in 2022 was particularly noteworthy, as he led the SEC with 274 carries, 1,567 rushing yards, and 16 rushing touchdowns.

He continued his success after transferring to Ohio State, recording 194 carries for 1,060 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns in the 2024 season. He also contributed 22 receptions for 161 receiving yards and two touchdowns, demonstrating his versatility as a dual-threat running back.

Adapting to Different Conferences

Judkins believes his experience in both the SEC and the Big Ten has prepared him for the NFL. “I feel like for myself, that was a positive for me,” Judkins said of playing in the SEC and the Big Ten. “Just having to play in the two hardest conferences in college football and playing in two different environments where I feel like the SEC has a different style of play than the Big Ten as well, they’re just too different. But getting the opportunity to play in both of them has helped me excel and further my career and be better as a player.” This adaptability will be crucial as he transitions to the complexities of the NFL.

Competition in the Running Back Room

Judkins joins a Browns running back room that already includes Jerome Ford and Pierre Strong jr. moreover, Nick Chubb is entering free agency, adding further uncertainty to the Browns’ backfield. The team’s investment in Judkins suggests they are preparing for all possibilities and prioritizing the re-establishment of their running game. The Browns averaged 94.6 rushing yards per game in the 2024 season, ranking 29th in the league.

Judkins’ Vision for His Role

Judkins expressed confidence in his ability to contribute to the Browns’ offense. “Who I am as a player — the physicality, the vision, the elusiveness, the ability to be used outside the tackles and be in the slot and also be in one-on-one situation with linebackers,” Judkins said. “And that’s why I feel like that’s who I am as a player. that’s why I feel like I fit so great in this offense. And this is such a great situation for me because this is the offense that I excel in because those are the things that I bring to the game. The passion as well, and the grit that you can’t coach. So that’s what I definitely look forward to for this year.”

However, some analysts question whether Judkins’ production at ohio State was truly indicative of his potential, citing a perceived dip in explosiveness compared to his time at Ole Miss. The Browns coaching staff will need to unlock the potential he flashed earlier in his college career to justify the 36th overall pick.

FAQ: Quinshon Judkins and the Browns’ Rushing Attack

• Why did the Browns draft Quinshon judkins?

  The Browns drafted Judkins to improve their rushing attack, which ranked 29th in the NFL last season. They believe he brings physicality and versatility to the running back position.

• How will Judkins fit into the Browns’ offense?

  Judkins is expected to compete for playing time with Jerome ford and Pierre Strong Jr. His ability to run between the tackles and catch passes out of the backfield could make him a valuable asset in various offensive schemes.

• What are Judkins’ strengths as a running back?

  Judkins’ strengths include his physicality, vision, elusiveness, and ability to be used in multiple roles, including running between the tackles, lining up in the slot, and catching passes from the backfield.

• Will Nick Chubb’s free agency affect Judkins’ role?

  Nick Chubb’s free agency certainly plays a factor. the Browns drafting Judkins suggests they are preparing for the possibility of Chubb not returning and are committed to improving their running game regardless.