The Cleveland Browns plan to keep running back Nick Chubb on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list for the start of the regular season. This means Chubb will miss the first four games of the season. He has been working to recover from a serious left knee injury sustained in Week 2 of the 2023 season. The injury led to two surgeries: the first in late September addressed the medial capsule, meniscus, and MCL, while the second in November repaired the ACL.
Despite the setback, the Browns are hopeful Chubb will return to play this season, although no specific timeline has been provided. General Manager Andrew Berry indicated in late July that Chubb still has some recovery ahead. Before Berry’s comments, Chubb had been seen performing full-speed sprints and agility drills, signaling positive progress in his rehab.
Nick Chubb, a four-time Pro Bowl running back, had a standout record of rushing over 1,000 yards for four consecutive seasons, including a career-high 1,525 yards in 2022. This current injury is notable as it is his second major knee issue, following a similar injury during his college years at the University of Georgia in 2015.
With Chubb out, Jerome Ford is expected to lead the Browns’ backfield. Ford, who had a solid performance last season with 813 rushing yards, will be crucial in filling the void left by Chubb’s absence.
Additionally, Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski has announced that offensive tackles Jedrick Wills Jr. and Jack Conklin will be activated from the PUP list, allowing them to potentially play in Week 1. Cornerback Greg Newsome and defensive tackle Dalvin Tomlinson will also return from their respective injuries, and safety D’Anthony Bell will be back from the PUP list. The team is confident that these players will be ready for their season opener against the Dallas Cowboys on September 8.
