Browns Shuffle Running Back Room: New Addition Steps Up as Key Player Faces Injury Setback
The Cleveland Browns have bolstered their running back room by signing Jacob Saylors, a move prompted by an injury to Pierre Strong Jr. during a practice session earlier this week. Strong, who suffered a rib contusion and was briefly hospitalized due to shortness of breath, is expected to be sidelined for an undetermined period.
Saylors, who was recently waived by the New York Giants after a standout UFL season, will step into the void left by Strong’s injury. The 25-year-old running back made a significant impact in the UFL with the St. Louis Battlehawks, where he accumulated 461 rushing yards and five touchdowns on 94 carries. His impressive performance earned him a spot on the inaugural All-UFL Team.
Jerome Ford Poised for Expanded Role
With the uncertainty surrounding Nick Chubb’s availability for the season opener, the Browns’ backfield could lean heavily on Jerome Ford. The third-year back is preparing for a potentially pivotal role, especially given Chubb’s ongoing recovery from major knee surgery. Chubb’s status remains in question, and he could miss the first four games of the season if not activated in time.
Ford, who has shown promise with 1,132 total yards last season, is ready to embrace a larger role. New running backs coach Duce Staley has emphasized the importance of pass protection, an area where Ford has been working to improve. “It’s all about what you’re doing when you don’t have the ball,” Staley said, highlighting the need for well-rounded skills from his backs.
D’Onta Foreman and the New Faces in the Backfield
The Browns’ running back rotation will also feature D’Onta Foreman, a recent addition who has made a quick recovery from a training camp injury. Foreman demonstrated his ability to handle short-yardage situations in his preseason debut against the Minnesota Vikings, scoring a touchdown on a 1-yard run. His physical style of play is expected to complement the Browns’ ground game effectively.
Additionally, Nyheim Hines, another offseason acquisition known for his pass-catching prowess, remains on the non-football injury list but could contribute once he returns.
The Browns’ depth at running back will be crucial as they prepare for their regular-season opener against the Dallas Cowboys on September 8. With a mix of emerging talent and seasoned veterans, Cleveland aims to navigate the challenges ahead and build a successful offensive strategy.
