Quinshon Judkins, the Cleveland Browns 36th overall pick in this year’s NFL Draft. He’s wasted no time having a massive effect on their previously lethargic offense. Making his debut in a challenging matchup, Judkins led the team with 61 rushing yards against the Ravens, showcasing his potential as a pivotal player for the Browns moving forward.
Even with missing all of training camp because of a legal issue, Judkins showed a lot of toughness. He last practiced with the team in June leading into Week 2. Upon returning, he wasted no time reasserting himself as the team’s best running back. He finished the regular season as the Browns’ leading rusher in both yards and attempts. This further illustrates his important presence on the offensive side of the ball.
In Week 2, Judkins had 61 rushing yards, with 36 of those yards coming after first contact, according to PFF. His standout play included a remarkable 31-yard run, where he took a handoff from quarterback Dillon Gabriel, cut into an open lane on the left side of the offensive line, and evaded several defenders. Judkins’ physicality was on display as he ran through Malaki Starks’ arm tackle. He then sidestepped three more Ravens defenders before finally being wrapped up.
He was really good,” said head coach Kevin Stefanski, lauding Judkins after the game.
The former Ole Miss and Ohio State star has made a big name for himself by breaking tackles. His poise when facing pass rush could quickly propel the Browns’ offense into a juggernaut. He played 20 snaps during the game, with all but one of those snaps occurring on third down situations, indicating the coaching staff’s confidence in his capabilities when it matters most.
Fast-forward to Week 3, and Judkins is the starting running back. This big decision is a strong signal that the coaching staff has confidence in his abilities. For that reason, they feel he can turn around the league’s worst offense.
Veteran quarterback Joe Flacco acknowledged Judkins’ potential, stating, “If we can play the kind of football that we want to, and we can get him in space, I obviously think that’s when we’re going to get to see what he can do.” Flacco highlighted Judkins’ ability to contribute in various ways, adding, “He’s going to be good at taking the two-, three-yard runs when that’s all that’s there and wearing on a defense. I do think he has the ability to kind of be a game breaker.”
Cleveland’s coaches are still high on Judkins’ continued development. Offensive coordinator Rees noted, “We were pleased with how he went out there and performed both mentally and physically. As he gets back into the flow of feeling the runs and just being integrated back with the group and the offensive line, we expect him to continue to develop.”
Judkins’ ability to immediately adjust to game scenarios following a long layoff from training camp shows his will to succeed and star caliber talent. As a young player, he is thrust into a very important role. This is his opportunity to be the dynamic, game-changing presence for Cleveland’s offense.
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