The Cleveland Browns will officially release running back Nyheim Hines this upcoming offseason as one of the first moves. According to multiple source outlets, the Browns are parting ways with the veteran after spending just one season with the team. Originally selected in the fourth round of the 2018 NFL Draft, the former NC State product was working his way back from a torn ACL but the Browns never gave him the chance to active Hines from the injury reserve. Hines was establishing the ground game for the Colts entering a new contract before they decided to trade him to the Bills.
However, the release seems surprising as Hines still has the versatility and ball skills to make an impact. It didn’t matter to the Browns, unfortunately, who will head into another offseason to rebuild their entire team again. Despite his injuries, he was still able to put 2,980 rushing yards totaling 18 touchdowns so he might have something in his tank. He spent the entire 2024 campaign on the NFI list so he should be ready to go as he had plenty of time from his recovery journey. Here are five teams that could take a chance on him next season to revitalize his career.
Cleveland Browns Officially Release Nyheim Hines – 5 Teams Who Could Sign Him
Next Possible Teams
Baltimore Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens are not in the best spending offseason again for the second time in a row. However, they need some help in the running back department behind Derrick Henry. Keaton Mitchell had yet to spark anything more than a three-yard gain in certain runs so they could sign a capable veteran to brush up the depth. Justice Hill could take on those services but it’s wiser for the Ravens to get him in dump-off and screen-play scenarios while Hines could drop in situational plays to help Henry.
Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers have one of the best salary cap after being held back by a financial strain last year. J.K. Dobbins had a phenomenal season for Jim Harbaugh’s philosophy of wanting to run the football. However, the same can’t be said about Gus Edwards who is out there still looking like a journeyman. Hines might not provide any difference than Edwards but he has more experience to help move the chains.
Dallas Cowboys
As of this posting, it’s hard to imagine the Dallas Cowboys will walk into this year’s NFL Draft looking for a running back. Ashton Jeanty might not be up on the board by the time they select, but no matter what, they shouldn’t be reluctant to add talent from free agency. Rico Dowdle probably won’t come back which means they could add Hines as a rotational running back in the depth.
New Orleans Saints
This would be the perfect scenario for the Saints who don’t have money to burn. Jamaal Williams had another disastrous season last year so they should be in the market to assist star Alvin Kamara. Kendre Miller had an awful offseason last year where patience was wearing thin so he will probably be on the chopping block too. Hines might not be as explosive but his contract situation could make sense for the Saints.
Washington Commanders
No one is taking Bijan Robinson’s job as long as he stays productive next season. However, the future doesn’t look promising for Austin Ekeler after the Commanders signed him to a one-year deal. Hines is probably the better fit for consistent carries to keep the football moving.
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