The Cleveland Browns have been one of the NFL’s most talked-about teams this offseason. With a glaring need at quarterback, the team was linked to several big names during free agency. Now, with the 2025 NFL Draft less than a month away, attention has shifted to what Cleveland will do with the No. 2 overall pick.
The Browns are in a prime spot — guaranteed access to at least one top quarterback prospect and one elite blue-chip talent. But while most of the spotlight is focused on the future, Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox believes the Browns should be looking at a familiar face in free agency.
Browns Should Sign 51-Touchdown Free Agent RB Nick Chubb
As tempting as it is to focus solely on the franchise-altering potential of that first-round pick, Knox suggests the Browns should make a quieter but meaningful move: re-sign Nick Chubb.
Cleveland’s run game took a major hit in 2024. Only six teams averaged fewer rushing yards per attempt, and only the Dallas Cowboys scored fewer rushing touchdowns. The absence of Chubb, the team’s longtime workhorse, was a big reason why.
Chubb suffered a devastating knee injury in Week 2 of the 2023 season. After a grueling rehab, he returned to the field in Week 7 of 2024 and played the final eight games. But he wasn’t quite himself, averaging just 3.3 yards per carry — a significant drop from the 5.3-yard average he posted in 2022.
Now a free agent, Chubb remains unsigned. Knox thinks that’s an opportunity the Browns shouldn’t pass up.
“One could make an argument for Joe Flacco here, as the Browns don’t have a clear-cut starter at quarterback yet. However, bringing back running back Nick Chubb might be the best free-agent move Cleveland can still make,” Knox wrote. “Injuries have cost Chubb most of the past two seasons, but he’s a fan favorite and has been the face of the Browns’ offense when healthy.”
With no reported interest from other teams, Cleveland may have a shot at bringing Chubb back on a team-friendly deal that makes sense for both sides.
Cleveland Browns Fans Want Chubb Back
Search “Nick Chubb” on X, and you’ll find fans pleading for his return. Chubb isn’t just a running back—he’s a symbol of the Browns’ grit and identity. Even if he starts 2025 in a limited role, he brings leadership, toughness, and upside that the current backfield lacks.
Re-signing Chubb wouldn’t just be a sentimental move. It would give the offense a proven contributor and help repair the team’s connection with its fan base. For a front office trying to win back trust, bringing back No. 24 could be a smart — and affordable — first step.