Browns still without a Week 1 option who last played for Ohio State, as unsigned rookie keeps questions alive
With Week 1’s intra-Ohio clash looming, the Cleveland Browns still don’t have a running back on the active roster who most recently played for Ohio State. Quinshon Judkins, the lone unsigned rookie from the 2025 draft class, remains in limbo amid a domestic violence arrest that has derailed his football career for now. While formal charges have not been filed and the NFL is conducting an investigation, the Browns and Judkins have yet to reach a contract resolution.
Judkins could theoretically attempt to return to college football, but there are significant hurdles. Current NCAA rules would prevent such a move, though legal challenges questioning those rules could potentially change the landscape in the future. If able to return to college football, Judkins could earn far more money there than he’s making in the NFL—unlike the Browns, who have not provided him with any compensation yet.
Insiders say the reason for the unsigned status remains unclear. It’s anticipated that Judkins’ slot would be a fully guaranteed contract based on recent signings, and the Browns could be wary of embracing that fully guaranteed model in his case. A related sticking point could be the default language that wipes out guarantees if a player is suspended. Given the potential for a suspension to void guarantees, Judkins may want exceptions to such clauses, and the Browns might be reluctant to agree.
Despite the discussions and the potential paths forward, there is no contract in place. If Judkins were to pursue college football, the Browns would still hold his NFL rights, and any return to the college game would not automatically resolve his status with the Browns. At present, Judkins is reportedly not pursuing a return to college football as a viable option, even in light of evolving legal or court developments.
What this means for the Browns heading into Week 1 is continued uncertainty at a key position. Cleveland may need to explore alternative plans at running back or rely on a committee approach to open the season, while keeping an eye on how the Judkins situation evolves.
Additional context and value for readers
– The situation highlights how rookie contracts and guarantee structures interact with off-field issues, and how teams weigh financial risk against potential on-field value.
– If the NFL or courts move toward changes in NCAA transfer rules or eligibility, there could be indirect effects on how players handle draft status, signings, and potential college returns in the future.
– For Browns fans, the immediate takeaway is a continued need for depth at running back as Week 1 approaches, with the team weighing internal options versus pursuing external additions.
Summary for readers
– The Browns lack a recent Ohio State-running-back presence on the roster for Week 1.
– Quinshon Judkins remains unsigned amid an ongoing NFL investigation into a domestic violence arrest.
– NCAA rules and potential legal challenges add complexity to any possible college return.
– Key sticking points in negotiations include fully guaranteed contracts and default clauses related to suspensions.
– No contract exists currently; long-term outcomes depend on both legal developments and decisions from Judkins and the Browns.
Positive note
Despite the unresolved contract situation, this period offers the Browns a chance to evaluate depth at running back, refine the offensive plan for Week 1, and position themselves to act decisively if and when Judkins’ status becomes clearer. It also underscores the broader importance of clear, consistent contract terms and league rules that support both competitive teams and player opportunity.