According to analyst Garrett Bush, second-year running backRaheim “Rocket” Sanders will have a leg up on his fellow running backDylan Sampson because of his size and toughness at the running back position.
Considering that theCleveland Browns are expected to rely heavily on their rushing attack this season under first-time head coachTodd Monken, the backup job becomes more significant than ever. After all, the Browns have yet to solve their quarterback competition dilemma.
Why Rocket Sanders Has The Edge Over Dylan Sampson In The Browns’ Backfield
Nov 11, 2023; Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Raheim Sanders (5) runs the ball during the first quarter against the Auburn Tigers at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports
Bush sees Sanders as the better fit for the role the Browns need behind Quinshon Judkins, a downhill runner capable of handling tough carries while protecting the QB on passing downs.
“I think Rocket Sanders will be the second back because I think you need a more between-the-tackle type guys,” Bush said. “I think Dylan Sampson is more of a third-down back, and I think Dylan Sampson is gonna struggle because of his size in the pass protection.”
Garrett Bush makes a bold prediction about the Browns’ RB room, projecting Rocket Sanders as the likely RB2 over Dylan Sampson, citing size and pass-protection concerns in the passing game.
"I think Rocket Sanders will be the second back because I think you need a more… pic.twitter.com/I4rL0k8Ox9
— BrownsNation.com (@BrownsNationcom) June 20, 2026
Standing 6-foot tall and weighing about 230 lbs., Sanders represents a different package of talent compared to Sampson. His power was evident toward the end of the previous season, demonstrating his ability to carry the ball for a short yardage play, gain extra yards after making contact, and tire out opponents.
Sampson provides great contributions on his own merits. As a freshman player from the University of Tennessee, Sampson contributed 33 receptions for 271 yards and 2 TDs, presenting the Browns with a valuable target in the open field.
What needs to be determined is whether this type of skill will translate into more playing time. Young RBs earn the coach’s confidence through executing blocking assignments just like rushing plays. If Sanders becomes more consistent with this responsibility, then he will claim the RB2 slot easily.
Still, the Browns don’t need an every-down backup. A rotation featuring Sanders on early downs and Sampson in passing situations may ultimately give Monken the balance he’s looking for heading into the season.
Training camp and preseason reps will likely determine how those touches are divided, however, Bush believes the formula is simple: bigger backs who can protect the quarterback tend to earn trust quickly.