Andrew Buller-Russ
Nick Chubb entered the league as the 35th overall pick with the Cleveland Browns in the 2018 NFL Draft out of Georgia. He only started nine games as a rookie, but Chubb still came just four yards shy of his first 1,000-yard rushing season. He’s since topped that mark four times.
Yet, Chubb tore his ACL in 2023, which wiped him out for all but eight games of the 2024 season too. Now, after averaging just 3.3 yards per carry last season, there’s some question as to how much juice the 29-year-old has left in the tank.
Meanwhile, others see the four-time Pro Bowler as a strong bounce-back candidate next season. It sets up a fascinating offseason for who was once viewed as one of the NFL’s best running backs as Chubb is now set to be a free agent.
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Nick Chubb wants to return to Cleveland Browns in 2025
There are no Derrick Henry or Saquon Barkley’s in NFL free agency this offseason. However, there will be several options, such as Aaron Jones, Najee Harris, and Nick Chubb.
Yet, of those names, it’s Chubb who stands out the most, thanks to his 5.1 career yards per carry average. While he struggled last year, the truth is, Chubb’s ceiling is the highest among this offseason’s available running backs.
So, where does Chubb want to sign in free agency?
Recently, when the seven-year pro was asked by the Akron Beacon Journal‘s Chris Easterling if he wants to return to Cleveland, Chubb said, “Of course.”
“This is where I was drafted. This is where I’ve played the last seven years.”
Chubb on 2025 free agency plans
While Chubb has a strong interest in re-signing in Cleveland, it takes two to tango. After landing the second overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, which is loaded with running back prospects, there’s no word on how much the Browns are willing to pay Chubb when other, more affordable options remain.
Related: 2025 NFL mock draft: Raiders and Broncos trade up in latest Round 1 predictions
