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Quinshon Judkins is proving to be the best rookie running back in the NFL

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Original Story by Sports Illustrated
September 22, 2025
Quinshon Judkins is proving to be the best rookie running back in the NFL

Context:

Quinshon Judkins has emerged as a standout rookie running back for the Cleveland Browns, leading his class with 155 rushing yards in just two games. Despite a delayed start to his NFL career due to legal issues, Judkins showcased his potential by achieving significant stats, including impressive rushing yards over expected, ranking fifth in the NFL with +56. His performance against the Baltimore Ravens and the Green Bay Packers highlighted his ability to handle a substantial workload, culminating in a game-tying touchdown and a crucial 38-yard rush. Judkins' efficiency is underscored by his ability to generate yards after forcing missed tackles, and he has quickly become the primary ball carrier, taking 57.9% of offensive snaps in Week 3. Head coach Kevin Stefanski acknowledges Judkins' trajectory for improvement, solidifying his role as the featured back moving forward.

Dive Deeper:

  • Quinshon Judkins has quickly established himself as the leading rookie running back in the NFL, amassing 155 rushing yards over two games, far surpassing other rookies despite having fewer carries. His performance is particularly impressive given his late entry into the season due to legal issues that postponed his signing.

  • Judkins made an impactful debut against the Baltimore Ravens, recording 61 yards on 10 carries, and followed it up with a standout performance against the Green Bay Packers, where he gained 94 rushing yards and scored his first career touchdown, tying the game at 10.

  • His efficiency is remarkable, as he ranks fifth in the NFL for rushing yards over expected with a total of +56, indicating his ability to exceed performance expectations significantly. This statistic positions him ahead of established stars such as Saquon Barkley and Derrick Henry.

  • In his game against the Packers, Judkins generated an additional +34 rushing yards over expected while also demonstrating his strength by forcing four missed tackles, contributing to his total of 58 yards gained after missed tackles, the second-most among rookie running backs.

  • With Judkins taking on a dominant role in the backfield, he played 57.9% of the offensive snaps in Week 3, accounting for 18 out of the Browns' 19 rushing attempts. His rapid ascendance has alleviated concerns about the running back position for the Cleveland Browns following the departure of long-time player Nick Chubb.

  • Head coach Kevin Stefanski has publicly praised Judkins, emphasizing that his performance will continue to improve, suggesting a bright future for the rookie as the cornerstone of the Browns' running game.

  • The Browns' coaching staff and fans are optimistic about Judkins' potential, indicating that he is set to be a central figure in their offense moving forward, especially given his ability to make significant plays in critical moments.

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