Nick Chubb Free Agency: Will Browns Re-Sign Veteran RB?

Unfortunately for Browns’ fans, it looks like the end of the road for Chubb in Cleveland.

During an appearance on 92.3 The Fan, Berry did say the team won’t bring back Chubb. However, the chances of it happening are slim.

“I wouldn’t rule anything out, but I would say that it’s probably increasingly unlikely,” Berry said. “We do have two young guys that we liked. We think Jerome [Ford] plays a role. It’s basically kind of maybe seeing how the roles shake out in the running back room.

“You’re never going to rule out someone as near and dear to our heart as Nick, and I would expect him to take another step being a year removed from the knee injury. But I’d say a return is less likely, at least in the short term, with us right now.”

The Browns drafted Chubb in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft.

Chubb could not have gotten off to a better start in his career. Chubb rushed for at least 996 yards in his first five seasons, with the last four surpassing the 1,000 mark.

Chubb’s best year came in 2022 when he finished with 1,525 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns.

Chubb’s career trajectory changed in September 2023 after suffering a torn MCL and damaged ACL. The injuries required surgery and cost him most of the 2023 season.

Chubb returned to the field in Week 7 of the 2024 season. Chubb rushed for 332 yards and three touchdowns during the 2024 season.

Without Chubb, the Browns’ backfield will likely consist of Jerome Ford and rookie Quinshon Judkins.

Potential Nick Chubb Teams Besides Browns

With Chubb’s time in Cleveland ending, where should he sign?

The Chicago Bears seem like an ideal fit for Chubb. New coach Ben Johnson created one of the best rushing attacks in Detroit behind David Montgomery, Jahmyr Gibbs, and an excellent offensive line.

The Bears made significant upgrades to the offensive line. D’Andre Swift is running back No. 1 for now. Adding Chubb to the mix would create a dynamic 1-2 punch.

The Kansas City Chiefs could be an interesting scenario depending on the contract.

Isaiah Pacheco, Kareem Hunt, and Elijah Mitchell should all see time in Kansas City. However, all three are injury-prone.

Signing Chubb to an affordable contract is a low-risk, high-reward move.