Cleveland Browns rookie running back Quinshon Judkins may not have heard his name called until the 36th pick of the 2025 NFL Draft, but don’t be surprised if he ends up as one of the most productive rookies in the league. In fact, there’s good reason to believe he’ll rack up his fourth consecutive 1,000-yard rushing season.
The biggest reason? Cleveland is going all-in on a power running identity. It’s their clearest offensive strength, especially with one of the league’s weakest passing attacks led by 40-year-old Joe Flacco. Kevin Stefanski, though, knows how to scheme a physical run game as well as anyone in the NFL.
Why Quinshon Judkins Is built for this role
Judkins is the ideal back to lead that charge. He’s been a force since arriving on the college scene three years ago at Ole Miss. As a freshman in 2022, his 1,567 rushing yards were the second-most ever by a freshman in SEC history—trailing only Herschel Walker. He followed that with an SEC-leading 15 rushing touchdowns in 2023. After transferring to Ohio State for the 2024 season, he still posted 1,060 yards while splitting carries with fellow second-rounder TreVeyon Henderson.
Judkins is built for Stefanski’s downhill system. He runs angry, with a low center of gravity and elite contact balance—routinely bouncing off tacklers and grinding out extra yards. Per Pro Football Focus, he forced 197 missed tackles over the past three seasons. His ability to stay upright through contact ranks as one of the best in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Don’t mistake his power for a lack of big-play ability, either. Judkins only ran a 4.48 at the Combine, but his game speed tells a different story. He ripped off 17 runs of 15+ yards last season, thanks to his burst through the hole and vision at the second level. That kind of acceleration will be critical behind a Browns offensive line that projects to be average at best.
Not only will Judkins be a focal point of Cleveland’s offense this year—he’s a piece the team can build around long-term. If Stefanski remains in charge and the Browns can add a legitimate quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft while continuing to strengthen their defense, this run game could evolve into one of the most dominant in the league.