Insider shares huge update on future of Browns' Nick Chubb

Multiple NFL writers and reporters have suggested this winter that the Cleveland Browns could trade or release popular running back Nick Chubb in early March unless the club signs him to an extension that could include a pay cut. 

It appears at least one of the above options isn't on the table. 

Browns insider Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer reported on Thursday that "nothing has changed" since general manager Andrew Berry insisted in January that Chubb isn't going anywhere as the 2018 second-round draft pick continues his recovery from the torn ACL, torn MCL, torn meniscus and torn medial capsule he suffered back on Sept. 18. 

The Browns could save $11.825M and have only $4M in dead cap by cutting Chubb. However, Cabot mentioned that Cleveland can rework contracts for several other players without having to make a final decision about Chubb's deal before the new league year opens on March 13. 

"The Browns will meet with Chubb’s agents, possibly as soon as the NFL Combine in Indianapolis next week, and discuss parameters for a restructuring — and possible extension — that will enable Chubb to make most or all of the money he’s due this season via incentives and bonuses," Cabot added. 

Chubb turned 28 years old this past December, which would make him a player in decline at the position in the eyes of many even if he hadn't gone down with a horrific injury in Week 2 of this past campaign. As Christopher Smith noted for the ClutchPoints website, though, many Browns fans took to social media this week to make it known they'd be furious if Cleveland parted ways with who is widely regarded as the face of the franchise. 

It seems Berry and others within the Browns received such messages loud and clear. 

"Chubb has meant as much to this team in the new era as Hall of Famer Joe Thomas, and the Browns will do right by him," Cabot wrote. "He’s not only a team favorite but also a fan favorite, and the Browns know money isn’t everything. They’ll make a smart business decision, but they’ll also lead with their hearts on this one." 

It's far too early to know if Chubb will ever reclaim the form that made him a four-time Pro Bowl selection, but it looks like he'll get a chance to do so with what's been his only NFL home.