A promising rookie campaign for running back Quinshon Judkins came to a heartbreaking and abrupt end in the latter stages of the 2025 season. Judkins suffered a severe leg injury, diagnosed as a broken leg and a dislocated ankle, during a game that immediately ended his season. The rookie underwent successful surgery to repair the damage, but the recovery timeline puts his availability for the start of the 2026 season in question.
Before the injury, Judkins was a rare bright spot in the Browns’ offense. In 14 games, he amassed 947 total scrimmage yards, demonstrating the vision, power, and receiving ability that made him a draft steal. He had emerged as the most dynamic weapon in a struggling offensive attack, showing the potential to be a franchise running back for years to come.
This injury creates significant uncertainty in the Browns’ backfield for 2026. With Jerome Ford also ending the season on injured reserve, the position is suddenly a major need. Judkins’ rehabilitation will be one of the most closely monitored stories of the offseason. The team’s plans for the running game under new head coach Todd Monken will heavily depend on Judkins’ recovery progress, potentially forcing the front office to invest additional resources in the position through free agency or the draft.