Nick Chubb’s potential return could be a major boost for the Cleveland Browns’ struggling offense. After suffering a significant knee injury in Week 2 of last season, Chubb is set to practice for the first time in over a year, giving the Browns hope for a much-needed spark. His return would be especially welcome as the Browns sit at 1-3, coming off a tough 20-16 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders.
Chubb, who has been one of the NFL’s premier running backs, is now entering a 21-day practice window after starting the season on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. If all goes well, he could be activated to the 53-man roster by the end of October. The Browns are likely to be cautious with Chubb given the severity of his injury and the fact that this is the second time he’s had surgery on the same knee he injured in college.
With Chubb back, Cleveland could regain some offensive balance and improve its chances of climbing out of its early-season slump.
Cleveland’s offense has struggled without Nick Chubb, evidenced by their inability to score more than 10 points against a Raiders defense that was missing key player Maxx Crosby. As they prepare to face Washington next week, followed by tough matchups against Philadelphia, Cincinnati, and Baltimore, the Browns are in desperate need of offensive firepower.
Nick Chubb’s return could make a significant difference. Drafted in the second round in 2018, Chubb was one of the most reliable running backs in the league before his serious injury last season. In Week 2 of 2022, Chubb tore his anterior and medial collateral ligaments and damaged his medial capsule and meniscus when he was hit low by Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick near the goal line.
The 28-year-old running back underwent two surgeries in November and has worked diligently on his rehab, hitting milestones ahead of schedule. If he continues progressing well, Chubb could provide the Browns with the spark they need to revive their offense during this critical stretch of the season.
