Judkins was signed to the Browns active roster ahead of Cleveland’s Week 4 contest against the Baltimore Ravens. This decision comes just a few days after Judkins was surprisingly listed as questionable to suit up earlier in the week. His return to the lineup is huge for the team. This follows immediately on the heels of their 17-16 defeat to the Cincinnati Bengals in their season opener.
Last Saturday, the Browns converted Judkins’ undrafted free agent deal to a fully guaranteed four-year contract at $11.4 million. This contract comes on the heels of a rocky summer for the player, who was fighting legal challenges leading up to this summer. Judkins’ arrest on July 12 stems from a misdemeanor domestic violence and battery charge in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. By August 14, prosecutors decided not to formally pursue the charge. That meant he could return to the active team this week.
Coach Kevin Stefanski expressed confidence in Judkins’ readiness for the game, stating that he had “done everything we’ve asked him to do up to this point.” Judkins was suited up and practicing with the team on Thursday and Friday, showing that he’s ready to show his commitment and help out right away.
Through all of this, Judkins was a training camp no-show. His versatility and experience will provide a huge lift to a rushing attack that faltered in the Bengals game. To add him back to the roster, the Browns signed receiver Gage Larvadain—a receiver—to make room for his return on waivers.
While Judkins’ playing status is still being reviewed by the league, he did sit down with NFL officials in New York on Wednesday. Significantly, he was not immediately added to the commissioner exempt list—which would have sidelined him indefinitely—leaving him available for play as soon as this Sunday.
Quinshon Judkins was taken with the 36th overall pick in this year’s draft. Now, he feels prepared to make his debut against the Ravens. His addition to the lineup should be huge for the Browns as they continue to search for a spark to improve their bottom-rung offensive unit.
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