Nick Chubb’s Future Remains Uncertain as Free Agency Progresses

CLEVELAND, Ohio — A week into free agency, running back Nick Chubb‘s future with the Cleveland Browns remains uncertain as interest in him appears to be lacking.

This will mark the first time in Chubb’s career that he has entered free agency after returning last season from a severe knee injury. The Browns’ willingness to allow Chubb to test the market has led to speculation about whether they should consider re-signing him, even in a diminished role.

Mary Kay Cabot and Dan Labbe of Cleveland.com discussed the potential return of Chubb, emphasizing the ramifications of what could be an affordable and safe decision for the franchise following a challenging season.

In a podcast episode, Cabot stated, “The plan with Nick Chubb was always to let him hit the free agent market and see what kind of opportunities he could generate. If he doesn’t find anything, the door will be open to him returning to the Browns as long as they have a role for him.”

However, the question remains: Can Cleveland accommodate Chubb, who struggled to perform last season after leg injuries limited his effectiveness? In 2024, Chubb participated in only eight games, rushing for 332 yards and three touchdowns, averaging just 3.3 yards per carry. After suffering a severe knee injury in September 2023, he missed significant playing time and broke his foot in December.

Currently, the Browns have Jerome Ford leading their running back depth chart, but the team is expected to seek additional depth in a deep running back draft class next month. If Cleveland were to retain Chubb, he would likely assume a minor role alongside Ford.

At 29, Chubb could potentially secure more playing time with a playoff contender, which raises questions about whether he would prefer that route. Meanwhile, the Browns continue to express interest in maintaining Chubb on their roster.

As the Browns navigate the complexities of free agency, Myles Garrett, a cornerstone of the franchise, has also emerged as a key figure in potential recruiting efforts. Reports suggest Garrett is actively working to convince Chubb to sign once again with Cleveland despite interest from other teams, including the Chicago Bears.

Garrett himself faced uncertainty at the end of last season after publicly expressing frustration with the team’s trajectory. Ultimately, he opted to remain with the Browns, accepting a historic contract extension worth $160 million over four years. This deal not only secures Garrett’s future in Cleveland but also establishes his leadership within the organization.

As the offseason progresses, the Browns will focus not only on free agency but also on their approach to the 2025 NFL Draft. While many expected Cleveland to prioritize acquiring a quarterback, recent speculation points toward addressing defensive needs first. Abdul Carter, a standout from Penn State, has emerged as a favored prospect for the team’s No. 2 pick, igniting debates among analysts regarding the team’s direction.

Former NFL General Manager Mike Tannenbaum advised that if the Browns believe in Carter’s potential, they should seize the opportunity to pair him with Garrett. On the other hand, Browns legend Joe Thomas insists the team should prioritize a playmaker who can contribute immediately.

As Cleveland stands at a crossroads with critical decisions looming, Chubb’s future remains an essential part of the overall narrative. How the Browns proceed with their roster decisions in the coming weeks will significantly shape their next season.