As the 2024 NFL season kicks off, the Cleveland Browns are preparing to navigate the early part of the year without their star running back, Nick Chubb. Starting the season on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, Chubb will miss at least the first four games—and possibly more—as he continues to recover from dual knee surgeries. The latest procedure, aimed at repairing both his ACL and MCL, was performed in November, leaving the Browns to adapt in his absence.
Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com reports that while the Browns are hopeful Chubb could return by midseason—potentially by Week 8 against the Ravens, Week 9 against the Chargers, or after the Week 10 bye—the team is cautious not to rush his recovery. The optimism surrounding Chubb’s return is tempered by the need for him to fully heal from his second major left knee reconstruction, which has significantly impacted the team’s preparations.
When healthy, Chubb has been a dominant force in the league. In his career, he has amassed 6,511 yards and 48 touchdowns in just 77 games, maintaining an impressive average of 84.6 yards per game and 5.3 yards per carry. His absence leaves a substantial void in the Browns’ offense, one they will attempt to fill through a running-back-by-committee approach.
Running Back by Committee
In Chubb’s stead, the Browns will rely on Jerome Ford, D’Onta Foreman, and Pierre Strong Jr. to carry the load. Ford, who stepped up last season after Chubb’s season-ending injury in Week 2, is expected to see the majority of the workload. Ford led the Browns in carries (204) and rushing yards (813) last season and also demonstrated his pass-catching ability with 319 yards and five touchdowns through the air.
D’Onta Foreman, brought back after initially being cut during roster reductions, will serve as the team’s short-yardage back. Foreman, known for his physicality and effectiveness around the goal line, showcased his prowess with a one-yard touchdown against the Minnesota Vikings in the preseason. His role will be crucial in converting short-yardage situations and maintaining offensive balance.
Looking Ahead
With the season opener against the Dallas Cowboys on September 8, the Browns are set to lean heavily on their running-back committee. This approach will be tested early and often as they aim to remain competitive while Chubb completes his recovery. The team’s strategy will likely evolve as Chubb inches closer to a return, but for now, the Browns’ backfield will need to step up and fill the significant void left by their Pro Bowl running back.
As Cleveland embarks on the season, all eyes will be on how well Ford, Foreman, and Strong perform in Chubb’s absence and whether the Browns can keep their playoff hopes alive until their star running back returns.
