Quinshon Judkins returns to practice as Browns prepare for crucial showdown against Ravens
Quinshon Judkins is back on the field, marking a significant step in his journey as a Cleveland Browns rookie. The second-round running back returned to practice on Thursday for the first time since minicamp, a promising sign for the team as they gear up for their Week 2 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens.
Having signed his rookie contract just over a week ago, Judkins is now integrating with the team as they prepare for a challenging encounter against one of the league’s toughest defenses. However, his immediate availability remains uncertain.
Monitoring Judkins’ Readiness
Cleveland’s offensive coordinator, Tommy Rees, indicated that the coaching staff will closely evaluate Judkins over the next few days to assess his readiness for Sunday’s game. The Browns are weighing their options carefully, knowing that rushing a rookie back into action against the Ravens could be risky.
As reported, “OC Tommy Rees says the team will monitor RB Quinshon Judkins closely over the next couple of days to see if he’s ready to face the Ravens on Sunday.” This cautious approach underscores the team’s commitment to ensuring that Judkins is fully prepared before taking the field.
Assessing the Running Back Situation
With just two practices under his belt, it may be challenging for Judkins to acclimate fully to the pace and intensity of regular-season play in such a short timeframe. During Week 1, the Browns showcased a solid running back duo in Dylan Sampson and Jerome Ford. Sampson, a fourth-round pick from Tennessee, led the ground game with 20 touches, demonstrating his capability to handle significant responsibilities.
Should Judkins not be ready for the Ravens, the Browns can rely on this established backfield combination. Sampson and Ford could continue to share the workload effectively, providing stability while Judkins finds his rhythm.
A Gradual Integration for Judkins
If Judkins is cleared to play, he will likely be eased into the game plan gradually. This means that Sampson could still lead the team in touches for the next week or two as they figure out how best to integrate Judkins into their offensive scheme.
Cleveland is eager to see the Ohio State national champion in action, but they must balance that enthusiasm with caution. With a crowded running back room and an offense that has little margin for error, the Browns know the importance of getting this decision right.
The anticipation around Judkins’ role in the upcoming matchup against the Ravens is palpable. As the team navigates this critical moment, the focus will remain on ensuring that their rookie sensation is ready to contribute effectively when the time comes.
