The Cleveland Browns passed on Shedeur Sanders yet again, opting instead for a hometown talent running back who racked up 50 scores in his college career.
Browns Draft Quinshon Judkins at No. 36 Overall
After passing on Sanders in the first round, the Cleveland Browns had two chances to draft Sanders atop the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft. With their first selection at No. 33, they drafted Carson Schwesinger, the best inside linebacker remaining.
At No. 36, they drafted Quinshon Judkins, a talented running back from the hometown Ohio State University.
“At 6’0″, 221 pounds, Judkins is a hyper-energetic, short-strider with elite burst and searing speed through gaps. He’s not an adept creator when things go off-script, but when things are on schedule, he’s a super-charged carving knife with his keen vision and quick pace,” wrote PFSN’s Editor-in-Chief Ryan Gosling in his scouting report.
Judkins was a key part of Ohio State’s victory over Notre Dame in the College Football Playoff National Championship, rushing for 100 yards and two touchdowns and adding a receiving touchdown.
Judkins recorded 1,200-plus scrimmage yards and at least 15 total touchdowns in each of his three years of college football.
“He excels with an explosive first step and a thunderous running style that punishes defenders and forces missed tackles. Though his vision isn’t elite, his patient approach and power make him a consistent threat,” wrote Gosling. “Judkins’ dense frame enables him to churn out yards after contact, showcasing a physical edge that keeps him among the nation’s top rushers.”
The Browns add Judkins to a running back group that includes Jerome Ford, Pierre Strong Jr., and John Kelly Jr. The team has not re-signed prolific running back Nick Chubb, who has battled several devastating injuries in recent years.
Cleveland needed a capable insurance option to potentially lead the room if they are unable to re-sign Chubb, or if he is unable to return to top form. Before drafting Judkins, the running back room was looking quite pedestrian heading into 2025.
Bolstering the rushing attack also helps the Browns for another reason — the team has one of the league’s least inspiring situations at the quarterback position and have yet to address it in the draft. As of now, the Browns’ offense is poised to be led by 40-year-old Joe Flacco, or the inexperienced Kenny Pickett.
It was a wise move to create a situation on offense that allows Cleveland to depend on its rushing attack with the lack of a top-tier quarterback option. Judkins has the potential to take on a lead role as a rookie for a run-heavy Browns offense.
