The Cleveland Browns are currently $7.7 million over the salary cap, and they could release star running back Nick Chubb to become cap-compliant. Thanks in large part to the terrible Deshaun Watson contract, Cleveland is in rough shape, even with the unexpected bump in salary cap space. While nobody ever wants to part ways with a player as good as Nick Chubb, the team might not have a choice.
Ever since he entered the league as a second-round pick back in 2018, Chubb has consistently been one of the best running backs in the league. Serving as arguably the best pure runner in the league, the Georgia product was nearly unstoppable on the ground from 2019 to 2022, recording 5,345 rushing yards and 40 touchdowns despite inconsistent quarterback play and head coaching changes. Despite all this, the Browns could still choose to release Nick Chubb in the coming days.
Chubb only played two games last year thanks to a gruesome knee injury. While he played well while on the field, the fact of the matter is that he’ll be entering his age-29 season, is coming off a major injury, and has over 1,200 carries to his name. Once you also factor in that the team can save $11.83 million with a release, it’s easy to see why the Browns could cut Nick Chubb.
5 Teams Who Could Sign Nick Chubb, If Released
It’s important to note that, as of this posting, there have been no credible reports stating that the Browns will release Nick Chubb. By all accounts, the team is considering it but has yet to make a final decision.
However, from the outside looking in, Chubb has probably played his last snap in Cleveland. As it is, he’s going into the final year of his contract, might not ever be the same, and plays a relatively replaceable position. Based on all this, it appears as though the Browns will release Nick Chubb.
Chubb might not be worth his $15.8 million cap hit for a team that needs to pinch pennies, but he should have an NFL home next year. While his recovery from last year’s knee injury is a major red flag, nobody is more dangerous when healthy. If the Browns do release Nick Chubb, these five teams could pursue him.
Best Fits
Baltimore Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens need a starting running back in the worst way. While they are the betting favorites for Derrick Henry, their plans could change if the Browns release Nick Chubb. Both players are elite runners, but Chubb is one year younger and has almost 800 fewer touches on his resume. Nobody knows how dangerous Cubb can be more than the Ravens, and they’d probably relish the opportunity to add a longtime divisional foe.
Houston Texans
The Houston Texans are in a perfect position to make the most out of C.J. Stroud’s rookie window. The foundation for success is already in place, and the team should have no issue using their $73.9 million in cap space on Nick Chubb, assuming the Browns release him. Devin Singletary did an admirable job down the stretch, but he’s nothing more than a replacement-level starter. Chubb will provide a legitimate threat on the ground, which will only make life easier for Stroud.
Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys want a three-down workhorse, and Tony Pollard fell short of expectations last year. With the former fourth-round pick set to hit free agency, Dallas could decide to invest in a more proven running back. Once the Browns release Nick Chubb, don’t be surprised if America’s Team tries to immediately sign him and make him their next featured back.
Los Angeles Chargers
Jim Harbaugh believes in the power of the run game, and he’ll probably need a new running back to execute his vision. With Austin Ekeler expected to depart in free agency, Harbaugh and friends could invest in one of the best downhill runners in the game. Offensive coordinator Greg Roman thinks the run game is the secret to unlocking Justin Herbert, and if the Browns release Nick Chubb, he could be the key to this offense.
Minnesota Vikings
The Minnesota Vikings let Dalvin Cook walk in 2023 because they believed they had a starting-caliber running back in Alexander Mattison. They were wrong. The former third-round pick was unable to make the most of his opportunity, which means the team will be looking for a new starter in 2024. Assuming the Browns release Nick Chubb, Minnesota could go after the four-time Pro Bowler. If Kirk Cousins leaves, head coach Kevin O’Connell will probably want to support his new quarterback with a strong running game.
Main Photo: Philip G. Pavely – USA Today Sports
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