Quinshon Judkins has been in the news recently, but not for his on-field efforts.
Judkins, who remains unsigned, was the 36th pick in the 2025 NFL Draft by the Cleveland Browns. While playing for the national champion Ohio State Buckeyes last season, Judkins rushed for 1,060 yards and scored 14 touchdowns.
The Browns hope Judkins can help fill the void left by Nick Chubb after he signed with the Houston Texans. But Judkins, who participated in the Browns’ rookie minicamp, has had more than football on his mind these days as he faced legal trouble. With his legal issues wrapping up, is the rookie RB expected to take the field in Cleveland’s second preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Saturday?
What’s the Latest on Quinshon Judkins?
Judkins was arrested by Fort Lauderdale, Florida, police on July 14, according to The Associated Press. Police received a report of battery and domestic violence that took place near Fort Lauderdale’s airport.
On Thursday, Aug. 14, prosecutors declined to pursue a case against him.
According to Florida’s assistant state attorney assigned to review the case, there were reasons not to prosecute. In a memorandum, the assistant state attorney cited the delayed report, a lack of video evidence, and a lack of independent witnesses among the reasons for not moving forward.
On Thursday, NFL insider Jordan Schultz reported that the Browns running back will avoid any formal charges.
“Browns rookie RB Quinshon Judkins will not face any formal charges,” Schultz posted. “This clears the way for him to return to the team, and I’m told that should likely happen in the near future.”
How Does Judkins’ Extended Absence Impact Cleveland’s Strategy?
Now that Judkins’ case has been thrown out of the courts, it means that he can go ahead and sign with the Browns. Judkins won’t play against the Eagles, but he’s expected to be in Cleveland’s training camp pretty soon.
It remains to be seen if Judkins will face NFL discipline under its personal conduct policy.
Until Judkins signs his contract and gets up to speed, Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski will look to other running backs. Fellow rookie Dylan Sampson, who played for Tennessee last season, could see more on-field time heading into the team’s second preseason game.
Veterans Jerome Ford and Pierre Strong Jr. provide depth, but not having Judkins in training camp and getting reps that matter will set the team’s offensive plans back.
Still, Stefanski must determine who will be the RB1 in the season opener.
The Browns finished 3-14 last season, giving long-suffering Cleveland fans little hope. Judkins’ absence has not helped in getting the team’s offense in sync.
