The Cleveland Browns are staring down Week 6 against the Baltimore Ravens, and they’ve just hit a major roadblock with star running back Quinshon Judkins inactive for the game. This is a tough pill to swallow for a team looking to snatch back the AFC North lead with a win over their division rivals, even with the Ravens reportedly missing Lamar Jackson.
The Backfield Mess: Who’s Stepping Up?
ESPN’s Adam Schefter dropped the news, reporting that Judkins, who was questionable with an ankle injury, is officially out. Talk about a troublesome situation! The Browns’ running back room is seriously banged up right now. It’s not just Judkins, either. Dylan Sampson wasn’t activated off IR this week despite getting some practice in, and Raheim Sanders just landed on IR himself after Week 5. So, who’s left to carry the rock in Cleveland?
McLaughlin and Estime: The Last Men Standing
Well, it all comes down to Jaleel McLaughlin and Audric Estime. These two are the only options remaining in the backfield. Both guys are former Denver Broncos running backs, but McLaughlin is the only one who’s actually seen some NFL regular season playing time. He’s had two attempts this season for the Browns, totaling 31 yards, including a sweet 28-yard touchdown. McLaughlin’s known as a pass-catching running back, and it looks like he’s more likely than not going to be the lead back this week. It’s probably going to be a split backfield, with both earning their fair share of work.
So, for at least this weekend, the Browns are without their main guy, Judkins. This game against the Ravens is huge for the AFC North. It’ll be a real test to see how McLaughlin and Estime handle the pressure and if they can step up big when their team needs them most.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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