Cleveland Browns rookie RB Quinshon Judkins arrested in July 2025, days before camp. The top pick's future is now in doubt, creating chaos for the team.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
Just when Cleveland Browns fans thought they could focus on football, a familiar feeling of dread has returned. With rookie training camp just days away, the team's top draft pick, running back Quinshon Judkins, was arrested Saturday night in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The incident throws the Browns' backfield plans into chaos and reignites frustration over the organization's persistent off-field troubles.
The 36th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft was jailed overnight on a misdemeanor charge of battery and domestic violence and remained in police custody as of Sunday.
The news broke Sunday morning that Quinshon Judkins, the highly touted running back from Ohio State, was arrested on a misdemeanor charge of battery and domestic violence. The incident occurred Saturday night, and as of Sunday, Judkins remained in custody in Florida. The Browns released a terse statement acknowledging they were aware of the situation and 'in the process of gathering more information.' This is a disastrous start for a player expected to help fill the void left by Nick Chubb. Compounding the issue, Judkins is the only member of the 2025 draft class who has yet to sign his rookie contract.
For the Dawg Pound, this story feels like a painful rerun. The arrest immediately sparked outrage and disappointment across social media, with fans lamenting another high-profile player involved in a serious off-field incident. The front office, which has faced scrutiny for similar issues in the past, is now under immense pressure to act decisively. The initial, non-committal statement has done little to quell the growing frustration from a fanbase desperate for a drama-free season.
On the field, the implications are significant. Judkins was drafted 36th overall with the expectation that he would compete for, and likely win, the starting running back job. His absence, whether temporary or permanent, creates a massive hole in the offensive game plan. This situation could thrust fellow rookie Dylan Sampson, a fourth-round pick, into a much larger role than anticipated. The uncertainty surrounding Judkins' legal status and future with the team means the Browns' running back depth chart, a point of strength just months ago, is now one of the team's biggest question marks heading into training camp.
As rookies prepare to report on Friday, a dark cloud hangs over Berea. The immediate focus will be on the legal process in Florida and the Browns' subsequent actions. Will Judkins ever sign his contract or even wear a Browns uniform? Will the team cut ties immediately? For now, a season that was supposed to start with fresh hope is instead mired in a familiar, frustrating off-field drama before a single practice snap has been taken.
