The bye week provides the Cleveland browns coaching staff an opportunity to evaluate the roster and explore potential ways to improve the team moving forward. As the trade deadline approaches, NFL trade rumors are swirling around some of the best running backs in football.
After losing Nick Chubb to a season-ending knee injury that will likely force him to miss games in 2024, Cleveland made Jerome Ford its starting running back and re-signed veteran Kareem Hunt. However, many wondered if the Browns would pursue a better running back via trade.
Related: Cleveland Browns insider suggests trade for WR still possible
Indianapolis Colts star Jonathan Taylor and Las Vegas Raiders running back Josh Jacobs would both be excellent additions to Cleveland’s backfield. The Browns could revert to their old offensive system, centering the game plan around the running back and using that to set up the pass.
However, despite the potential availability of two Pro Bowl running backs, Browns’ general manager Andrew Berry hinted the team is satisfied with its current running backs.
“Because of the tampering rules, I know I can’t touch on specific players.We’re always active seekers, participants in the trade market, but I would say we’re pleased with the running back room.”
Cleveland Browns GM Andrew Berry on the possibility of trading for a running back (H/T The Chronicle)
Ford has been Cleveland’s primary running back since Chubb went down. However, he’s been largely unproductive on the ground. In two contests since Chubb’s injury, Ford has averaged just 2.32 yards per carry with 44 rushing yards on 19 attempts. Of note, though, Cleveland has faced two of the NFL’s best run defenses.
Despite his lack of production as the starting running back, Berry still offered significant praise of Ford and is firmly a believer in his big-play ability.
“Jerome provides us big-play ability. We’ve seen that over the first month of the season. His speed and strength is a real asset, and then also he’s a real contributor in the passing game. We think Jerome’s ability to actually split out and run routes, that’s something that’s pretty hard to find.”
Andrew Berry on Cleveland Browns running back Jerome Ford
The Browns will be moving forward with more of a platoon at running back, one that should see Ford lead the tea in touches the rest of the way. Unless the Colts significantly lower their asking price for Taylor or if another high-end running back becomes available for cheaper, Cleveland will likely stick with its current options.