Good news has been sparse for the Cleveland Browns recently, but they are about to get a much-needed boost with a promising report on Pro Bowl running back Nick Chubb.
According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, Chubb is scheduled to resume practicing on Wednesday, when he is eligible to be removed from the team’s physically unable to perform list. It’s not all good news, however. Chubb is set to miss Week 5’s game against the Washington Commanders.
“The Pro Bowler is not expected to play in Cleveland’s Week 5 game against the Commanders, but the team opening his three-week window will be a significant sign that he is set to return midseason as Chubb and the Browns had hoped,” according to Rapoport.
Chubb suffered a serious knee injury in Week 2 last season against the Pittsburgh Steelers. He missed the rest of the season and underwent two surgeries to fix his ACL, meniscus, and other ailments.
Nick Chubb Restructured Contract With Browns
To be in with a chance of making the playoffs, the Browns must quickly turn things around. But, regardless of his destiny, Chubb has a big season ahead of him. Chubb is approaching the final season of his deal with the Browns.
He reworked his contract this offseason amid uncertainties about his comeback. Chubb’s basic compensation has lowered, but he still has incentives that might help him earn his prior base of $11.775 million.
Some doubt Chubb’s ability to return to his old form. However, he is using it as incentive.
“I see everything.” It’s not the first time someone has counted me out, so I’ve been here before and am not paying any attention. But I see it, and I’m just focusing on getting better,” Chubb stated in July. “Being able to play this game is a blessing. You can’t take anything for granted since everything may be taken away in a single play. I’m just grateful to have so much support in Cleveland, from fans, friends, and family, to keep me encouraged and motivated.”
When fully healthy, Chubb is among the NFL’s best. In 77 games with the Browns, he has 6,511 yards and 48 touchdowns, averaging an astounding 84.6 yards per game and 5.3 yards per rush.
Browns’ Running Game Struggles Without Nick Chubb
The Browns’ running offence has struggled this season without Chubb. Cleveland rushed for 92 yards against the Raiders, but quarterback Deshaun Watson added 32 yards. Another chunk of that yardage came on a single play, when Jerome Ford broke away on a 35-yard run.
This season, the Browns average 94.8 yards rushing per game, ranking them 26th in the league. However, there have been difficulties that go beyond running backs D’Onta Foreman and Ford.
The Browns’ offensive line is shorthanded, with many starters out due to injuries. That includes Jedrick Wills Jr., Wyatt Teller, Jack Conklin, and centre Ethan Pocic, who suffered an injury against the Raiders. Cleveland is also missing tight end David Njoku, a capable blocker and Pro Bowl receiving threat.
Watson remarked after Sunday’s loss that he’s not sure how their returns will influence the Browns.
“We’ll see,” he replied. “You have to take it one day at a time, therefore my job is to focus on those 11 guys on the field. So we’d love to have all of those guys back, and it will surely help, but we’ll see.
The Browns are 3.5-point underdogs against the Commanders, according to ESPN BET. Washington and rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels have won three straight.
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