When the 2025 NFL Draft rolled around, the Cleveland Browns wasted little time making a statement. With the 36th overall pick, early in the second round, they selected a player who had already cemented himself as one of the most dynamic and productive collegiate running backs of the past few years. That player was Quinshon Judkins, the powerful yet agile ball carrier who had made headlines in both the SEC and the Big Ten, first as a freshman phenom at Ole Miss and then as a workhorse running back for the Ohio State Buckeyes. By the time the Browns were on the clock, there was little debate left about whether Judkins could be an asset to an NFL team—only questions about how soon he would begin making an impact at the next level.
Judkins’ football journey is a remarkable one, marked by grit, adaptability, and undeniable skill. After a record-setting freshman year at Ole Miss, where he ran for over 1,500 yards and tallied 16 touchdowns, he became one of the most feared backs in the country. His ability to break tackles, read blocks, and explode through holes made him nearly impossible to contain. But in a surprising turn following his sophomore season, Judkins entered the transfer portal and ultimately landed with the Ohio State Buckeyes—a move that shocked many but made perfect sense strategically. Ohio State, known for developing NFL-caliber talent and competing for national titles, offered him a bigger stage and a more robust offensive line. The move paid off, as Judkins thrived in Columbus, reinforcing his status as a top-tier back and proving his skillset was portable and adaptable.
At Ohio State, Judkins showcased the full breadth of his abilities. He demonstrated patience behind the line, vision to find cutback lanes, and power to finish runs through contact. He also grew as a receiver out of the backfield, which was a key development for NFL scouts. His improved pass protection and willingness to pick up blitzes made him an every-down back—a rare commodity in today’s NFL. Week after week, Judkins carved up Big Ten defenses with punishing runs and game-changing plays. Against Penn State, he ran for 142 yards and two touchdowns. Versus Michigan, even in a losing effort, he tallied over 100 total yards and kept the Buckeyes in contention. It became increasingly clear that Judkins wasn’t just a college star—he was a professional in waiting.
So when the Browns selected him with the 36th pick, it was a calculated and confident move. Cleveland had long needed a running back who could both complement and eventually succeed Nick Chubb, the team’s Pro Bowl bell cow who had suffered a devastating knee injury in 2023. While Chubb remained on the roster in 2025 and was expected to make a return, the Browns front office knew they had to plan for the future. Drafting Judkins wasn’t just a depth move—it was an investment in the continuation of a strong running tradition in Cleveland. With Deshaun Watson still under center and Amari Cooper leading the receiving corps, the Browns needed a dependable, explosive back to balance the offense. Judkins brought exactly that.
One of the most exciting aspects of Judkins joining the Browns was how seamlessly his style fit the AFC North mold. This is a division built on toughness, physicality, and grit. The Pittsburgh Steelers, Baltimore Ravens, and Cincinnati Bengals all boast aggressive defenses and hard-hitting secondaries. To thrive in this environment, a running back needs more than just speed or flash; they need durability, a strong base, and an edge. Judkins checks all those boxes. His powerful lower body and relentless motor make him an ideal match for cold-weather, late-season games where running the football and protecting the rock become paramount. He was built for AFC North football, and the Browns front office knew it.
From a schematic standpoint, Judkins offers the Browns a lot of flexibility. Offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey can utilize Judkins in multiple roles—inside zone runs, outside zone stretches, screen passes, and even motion plays out of the slot. While he isn’t the fastest back in the league, his quick acceleration and low center of gravity allow him to gain chunk yardage consistently. He’s hard to bring down on first contact and often turns two-yard runs into six-yard gains. That kind of reliability can transform offensive drives, especially when facing elite pass-rushers and needing to stay ahead of the chains.
Judkins also brings leadership and high football IQ to the locker room. At Ohio State, he was widely respected not just for his on-field exploits but for his work ethic and approach to the game. Coaches raved about his preparation, his understanding of blocking schemes, and his attention to detail during film sessions. He’s a student of the game, which bodes well for his transition to the NFL. The Browns coaching staff has already praised his maturity during rookie minicamps and OTAs, noting that he approaches each day like a veteran. That kind of mental preparation and professionalism is rare for a rookie and shows that Judkins is not only ready to play but ready to lead.
There’s also the fan factor. Browns fans, known for their loyalty and passion, have embraced Judkins quickly. His story resonates—an under-recruited kid from Alabama who dominated in the SEC, transferred to one of the most prestigious programs in the country, and now carries the hopes of a franchise longing for postseason success. His humble demeanor, physical running style, and tenacity mirror the blue-collar identity of Cleveland. He’s the kind of player fans can rally around, the kind of player who can energize a stadium with a single carry.
Of course, the NFL presents its own set of challenges. Judkins will face faster defenses, more complex blitz packages, and the grind of a 17-game regular season. He’ll need to adjust to a heavier workload, especially if Chubb’s return is delayed or limited. But early indications suggest he’s up to the task. He’s already training with the first team, learning the nuances of pass protections, and building chemistry with Watson and the offensive line. With each practice, he’s closing the gap between college stardom and NFL success.
There’s also potential for an exciting tandem backfield with Chubb. If the veteran returns to form, Cleveland could field one of the most dangerous 1-2 punches in the league. Both backs have similar traits—power, balance, and elite vision—but they also bring different dimensions to the game. Chubb is more seasoned and methodical, while Judkins is a bit more explosive laterally and more of a threat as a receiver. Together, they could form a nightmare for defenses, especially with play-action options and two-back sets that keep linebackers guessing.
Beyond 2025, the long-term outlook is bright for Judkins. Assuming health and steady development, he has the potential to become the Browns’ feature back for years to come. His age, production, and polish give him a high floor, but it’s his ceiling that excites scouts. If he continues to improve his route running, ball security, and stamina, there’s no reason he can’t be a Pro Bowl-caliber back by Year 2 or 3. And in an NFL increasingly moving toward versatile offensive threats, Judkins’ skill set is perfectly tailored for a modern playbook.
For the Browns, the selection of Judkins wasn’t just about filling a need—it was about shaping an identity. They doubled down on the physical, run-first brand of football that has historically defined the franchise. They added a player who brings both consistency and playmaking ability. And most importantly, they brought in a young man who has proven, time and again, that he’s built for the biggest stages.
Judkins’ journey from Ole Miss to Ohio State to Cleveland is already one of perseverance and excellence. The NFL will test him in new ways, but if his past is any indicator, he’ll rise to the occasion. The Browns have found themselves a gem at the top of the second round, and with the right support and development, they may have found their running back of the future. The Dawg Pound should be excited—because Quinshon Judkins is ready to run through defenses and into the hearts of Cleveland football fans
