Nick Chubb is set to make his long-awaited return to practice with the Cleveland Browns, marking his first on-field appearance since a significant knee injury in September 2023. This return is a beacon of hope for the Browns and their fans as they eye a bright future with Chubb back in action.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski expressed his excitement, stating, “Nick is diligently working through his rehab, and it’s always thrilling to know that he’s protected and ready to progress.” Stefanski added, “Nick has been with us every step of the way; he’s not just a player on the sidelines. He’s in every meeting, contributing as if he’s out on the field. This practice return is simply his next natural progression.”
Chubb, paired with fellow running back Nyheim Hines, both recovering from debilitating knee injuries, are on a 21-day practice window as the Browns evaluate their activation. Their camaraderie through intense rehab, workouts, and strategy sessions is truly commendable. Since the start of training camp, they have pushed each other toward a common goal, demonstrating resilience and perseverance.
Predicting the next steps remains a challenge, and the Browns are set to consider recommendations from their medical team and the players themselves to gauge when, or if, these talents will rejoin the roster in November. Currently, the Browns, with Jerome Ford leading the pack, are averaging 4.3 yards per carry behind an injury-battered offensive line.
Initially sidelined in Week 2 of the previous season due to a torn meniscus and anterior cruciate ligament, Chubb required multiple surgeries before even reaching this rehabilitation milestone. Yet, his indomitable spirit – embodied since his time at the University of Georgia – shines through, following a rigorous regime right at the Browns’ Berea, Ohio, facility.
Browns general manager Andrew Berry revealed that Chubb has been rigorously carrying out “two workouts a day for his rehab,” influencing the franchise’s decision to retain him under a restructured contract. Chubb’s commitment and dedication highlight why he’s been a Pro Bowl selection four times in a row (2019-2022), and impressively surpassed 1,000 rushing yards each of those seasons, peaking at 1,525 yards in 2022.
During the 2023 season, Chubb maintained his discipline as though poised for a regular-season game, retaining every aspect of his preparation, down to his early morning arrivals and thorough recovery plans. His potential earnings from his base salary have now transitioned into performance incentives, should he make his outstanding return.
Berry emphasized, “Last season, on a scale of respect for Nick Chubb, he was already a 10. Post this year, he’s easily a 20.” The reverence for Chubb within this organization is unparalleled, solidified by his sheer willpower, as showcased in a video featuring him squatting 500 pounds, followed later by another demonstrating one-legged side jumps.
Stefanski, during preseason discussions, clearly expressed his unwavering confidence in Chubb’s return, proclaiming he’d “never doubt this young man.” However, on August 27, Chubb, alongside Hines, was listed as physically incapacitated. Fast forward to today, both have been activated to resume practice, igniting hope for their impactful return within the 21-day window.
Stefanski also noted, “Hines is a talented ball carrier. Whether running or receiving, his gameplay potential is beyond just special teams.” After missing all the previous season due to a jet ski mishap, Hines brings renewed vigor, previously demonstrating his talents with the Buffalo Bills under current Browns offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey and special teams coach Bubba Ventrone.
The return of these driven athletes heralds an exciting chapter for the Browns, and the NFL anticipates the enhancements they will bring to the gridiron once more.
