The Cleveland Browns’ backfield in 2025 looks like a puzzle fantasy football managers would be wise to avoid. Despite the presence of intriguing pieces, the overall uncertainty and systemic issues within the offense make it a risky investment.
Last season, Cleveland had the worst offense in the NFL, finishing last in points per game and turnover differential. Their struggles on first down, ranking last in expected points added (EPA) per pass and rush, set a conservative tone that stifled any offensive momentum. With an offensive line that allowed 66 sacks and a rushing attack that failed to produce a single 100-yard game, the backfield was far from productive.
Cleveland Browns, Dylan Sampson
May 9, 2025; Berea, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns running back Quinshon Judkins (10) runs a drill during rookie minicamp at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
The current rotation includes Jerome Ford, Dylan Sampson, and unsigned rookie Quinshon Judkins, but none inspire full confidence. Ford led the team in rushing the past two seasons but was clearly seen as replaceable, given Cleveland’s draft strategy. Sampson, a dynamic but unproven player, adds explosiveness, but his inexperience means he’s far from a sure thing.
Adding to the uncertainty is Judkins’ off-field issues, which cast doubt on his availability and role. Without a clear lead back, fantasy managers face the headache of navigating a committee approach that is unlikely to yield consistent results. Cleveland’s offensive woes, combined with a lack of clarity in their backfield hierarchy, amplify the risks.
Fantasy Football Analysis Names Cleveland Browns’ Backfield as the One to Avoid in 2025 NFL Season
Cleveland Browns, Dylan Sampson
Cleveland Browns running back Dylan Sampson (22) chats on the sideline during NFL rookie minicamp at the Cleveland Browns training facility on Friday, May 9, 2025, in Berea, Ohio.
Cleveland’s backfield isn’t looking great in Fantasy Football ahead of the new season. This is detailed more in an analysis by Brent Sobleski for Bleacher Report.
The entire Cleveland Browns offense has the ingredients for a potential disaster.
Beyond the reliable veteran offensive linemen found of up front (Joel Bitonio, Wyatt Teller and Jack Conklin), the unit has no legitimate solution at quarterback. Dawand Jones must prove he can handle left tackle. A second wide receiver must show he can be a threat to help Jerry Jeudy. Meanwhile, the running back rotation is in flux.
Currently, Quinshon Judkins, whom the organization drafted in this year’s second round, remains unsigned after being arrested on a charge of battery and domestic violence. The Browns remain “cautiously optimistic” that the running back will sign and play for the team this season.
Even if individual players show flashes of potential, the systemic problems on offense limit their upside. A risk-averse play-calling approach and poor blocking further complicate the situation, making it difficult to trust any single back.
Cleveland Browns, Dylan Sampson
Cleveland Browns running back Dylan Sampson (22) hops over a teammate as he runs for yards during NFL training camp at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus, Friday, Aug. 1, 2025, in Berea, Ohio.
For fantasy managers looking for reliability and upside, Cleveland’s backfield offers neither. Until the offense demonstrates significant improvement, this group is best avoided in drafts.
Cleveland Browns, Jerome Ford
Dec 15, 2024; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Jameis Winston (5) congratulates running back Jerome Ford (34) after a touchdown run against the Kansas City Chiefs during the third quarter at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Scott Galvin-Imagn Images
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