As the Browns open 2025 camp, rookie QB Shedeur Sanders shines, but with RB Quinshon Judkins out, can Cleveland solve its looming backfield crisis?
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The familiar buzz is back in Berea as the Cleveland Browns officially kicked off their 2025 training camp today. While the arrival of rookies and veterans at the CrossCountry Mortgage Campus brings a wave of optimism, a shadow of uncertainty hangs over a critical position. As rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders turns heads in early workouts, the team is grappling with a glaring hole in the backfield, forcing the front office to scramble for solutions.
The biggest question in Berea isn't about the new quarterback's arm, but whether the Browns can pick up a yard when everyone in the stadium knows they need it.
Excitement is building around first-year quarterback Shedeur Sanders, who was front and center for the third day of rookie workouts. Sporting his No. 12 jersey, the highly-touted prospect is already drawing significant attention as he gets acclimated to the pro system. Every rep is being scrutinized as he begins the journey of competing in the Browns' quarterback room. For a franchise hungry for a long-term answer under center, Sanders' development is the most compelling storyline of the summer.
While Sanders provides a dose of hope, a major concern is brewing on the offensive side of the ball. Running back Quinshon Judkins remains sidelined, and his absence is creating anxiety about the team's ability to handle short-yardage situations. The Browns' success often hinges on a punishing ground game, and the inability to convert on third-and-short could be a fatal flaw in the rugged AFC North. Reports indicate that GM Andrew Berry and even defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz are deeply concerned, recognizing how a stalled drive impacts both sides of the ball.
The front office isn't sitting idle. Rumors are swirling as the Browns actively evaluate their options to reinforce the running back corps. On Sports4CLE, Dave Bacon noted that a recently released Seattle Seahawks running back has emerged as a potential target. This speculation confirms that Andrew Berry is working the phones, looking for a veteran presence to provide depth and, more importantly, a reliable option while Judkins is out. A signing could be imminent as the team looks to solve this problem before the pads come on.
The opening days of camp have set the stage for two parallel narratives: the exciting development of a potential franchise quarterback and the urgent search for a reliable running back. All eyes will be on Andrew Berry to see how he addresses the backfield, while fans will eagerly track every throw from Shedeur Sanders. The answers to these questions will define the Browns' offense in 2025.
