The Cleveland Browns are well-positioned for long-term success with running backs Quinshon Judkins and Dylan Sampson. Yet an NFL analyst believes that there is one problem when it comes to Sampson.

“The issue with the running back position is that it only produces if the offensive line and passing game is there to support it else you load the boxes and stop it,” wrote Jack Duffin on 247 Sports on June 11.

Both running backs are heading into year two, but with completely different workloads under their belts. Judkins logged 14 starts last season as a primary option, while Sampson was used more selectively, appearing in 15 games with only two starts.

That limited starting experience ties directly into how analysts view Sampson's specialized role on the offense.

"The one challenge they have with Sampson is he is better suited to the receiving game, they really need to find another back who can be a consistent rushing threat when Judkins isn't on the field," wrote Jack Duffin on 247 Sports on June 11.

But when Judkins is out, things start to get tricky because Sampson isn't naturally suited to carry the early-down, between-the-tackles workload by himself.

This is why the analyst believes the Browns should trade for another running back, considering they have the cap space to do so.

While the RB1 and RB2 positions are locked in with Quinshon Judkins and Dylan Sampson, Duffin believes the RB3 spot will likely be filled by Raheim Sanders.

However, there's a condition as well, and it depends on how his training goes.

“If he doesn't produce in training camp, they could turn to a cheap veteran player at cut downs or in free agency who could come in and do a job as a third back,” wrote Duffin.

While the Browns have yet to make any changes to their running back room this offseason, Moe Moton of Bleacher Report believes they should target one player to bolster the position this season.

A free agent signing could be a solution for the Browns

While it is nearly certain that Quinshon Judkins will be the starting running back this season, with Dylan Sampson as the RB2, one could argue that Cleveland would benefit from having more of a veteran presence at running back this season.

According to Duffin, some "great additions" could be Najee Harris and Joe Mixon, whereas some "good additions" would be Kareem Hunt and Austin Ekeler.

The analyst also provided some "okay" options like Nick Chubb, Raheem Mostert, Miles Sanders, Khalil Herbert, Antonio Gibson, and Alexander Mattison.

One other option that Duffin gave was a "wildcard option": Zamir White, who would mainly serve to create competition in the locker room.

Should the Browns ride with their young duo of Judkins and Sampson, or is a veteran addition necessary to secure the backfield? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

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Written by

Suryakant Das

Edited by

Shubhi Rathore