The latest Quinshon Judkins news has captivated the football world, as the star rookie running back finds himself at a pivotal and uncertain juncture in his career. After a decorated collegiate career, Judkins was selected by the Cleveland Browns in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft, a move that was expected to solidify the team’s backfield for years to come. However, a combination of contract disputes and a legal situation has left him as the last unsigned rookie from his draft class, creating a complex and intriguing narrative that has dominated headlines.
A Look Back: The College Career of a Superstar
To truly understand the significance of the current Quinshon Judkins news, one must first appreciate the foundation of his football resume. Judkins was not just a good college running back; he was a phenomenon. His journey began at Ole Miss, where he burst onto the scene as a true freshman in 2022.
Ole Miss: From Three-Star Recruit to SEC Sensation
Judkins’ career at Ole Miss was nothing short of legendary. He arrived as a three-star recruit but quickly surpassed all expectations, setting new school records for rushing yards and touchdowns in his first year.
2022: As a freshman, Judkins recorded a staggering 1,567 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns, earning him numerous accolades, including the CBS National Freshman of the Year and the SEC Freshman of the Year. He tied a school record with 14 career 100-yard rushing games, a testament to his consistent, elite-level production.
2023: He followed up his breakout freshman campaign with another stellar season, leading the SEC with 15 rushing touchdowns and tallying 1,158 yards on the ground. Despite the high usage, his performance remained at a high level, showcasing his durability and tenacity.
The Transfer Portal and Ohio State’s National Title
In a move that sent shockwaves through the college football world, Judkins entered the transfer portal after the 2023 season. His stated goal was to compete for a national championship, a dream he pursued and achieved at Ohio State.
At Ohio State, Judkins formed a dynamic and physical backfield duo with fellow NFL prospect TreVeyon Henderson. While his individual volume stats were slightly lower due to the shared workload, his efficiency remained elite. He played a crucial role in the Buckeyes’ run to the 2024 College Football Playoff National Championship, scoring six rushing touchdowns during the playoff gauntlet alone, including three in the championship game against Notre Dame. His time at Ohio State validated his talent and proved his ability to produce in high-pressure, big-game situations. Across his three-year collegiate career, Judkins amassed an incredible 3,785 rushing yards and 45 rushing touchdowns.
The Professional Crossroads: Why is Judkins Unsigned?
The most pressing Quinshon Judkins news revolves around his status as the only remaining unsigned rookie from the 2025 NFL Draft class. This complex situation is a perfect storm of multiple factors: a legal issue, a shifting contract landscape for second-round picks, and the personal conduct policy of the NFL.
The Legal Situation
In early 2025, a domestic violence incident was reported involving Judkins. While formal charges were ultimately not filed against him, the NFL initiated its own investigation under its personal conduct policy. This has been a significant hurdle in the contract negotiations. Even with the legal case resolved in his favor, the NFL’s internal review can result in a suspension, regardless of the court’s decision. This uncertainty makes it difficult for a team to sign a player who may be subject to a suspension at any time.
The Contract Stalemate
Beyond the legal issues, a major sticking point in Judkins’ contract talks with the Browns is the push for fully guaranteed contracts for all second-round picks. This has become a league-wide trend, with several other high draft picks securing guaranteed deals. As the No. 36 overall pick, Judkins’ slot would typically not be fully guaranteed, but his representation is reportedly pushing for this to match the new market trend.
A key element of this negotiation is the “default language” in the contract. This language typically allows a team to void a player’s contract guarantees if they are suspended for off-field conduct. Given his pre-existing legal situation, Judkins’ team is likely seeking to have this incident exempt from such a clause. The Browns, in turn, are likely unwilling to set a precedent by granting such an exemption, creating a standoff that has held up the signing for months.
The NFL’s Investigation
As of late August 2025, an NFL spokesperson confirmed that the league’s investigation into Judkins’ situation “remains under review.” This independent review is a standard procedure and can take a considerable amount of time. The outcome of this investigation will be a significant factor in Judkins’ immediate future, and the Browns are likely waiting on the league’s ruling before finalizing any deal.
Practical Implications and Outlook for the 2025 Season
The uncertainty surrounding Judkins has tangible consequences for both his professional outlook and the Cleveland Browns’ roster management.
Impact on the Browns’ Roster
The Browns are heading into the season with a lack of depth and experience at the running back position. With the departure of Nick Chubb, they were counting on Judkins to step into a prominent role alongside veteran Jerome Ford and fellow rookie Dylan Sampson. His absence throughout training camp and the preseason has left a significant void.
While the team has expressed confidence in their current backfield, the need for Judkins’ talent is undeniable. His presence would not only add a dynamic rushing threat but also provide much-needed depth and a workhorse back who can handle a heavy volume of carries. Without him, the Browns’ run game could be less effective, putting more pressure on their passing attack.
Fantasy Football and Dynasty League Insights
For fantasy football players, the Quinshon Judkins news has created a high-risk, high-reward scenario. His average draft position (ADP) has plummeted since his off-field incident, making him a potential “draft-and-stash” candidate in late rounds.
High Risk: There is a real possibility that Judkins could be suspended for a portion of the season or, in a worst-case scenario, miss the entire year. Drafting him would mean using a valuable bench spot on a player with a huge question mark attached.
High Reward: If he signs and the NFL’s investigation concludes with a minimal or no suspension, Judkins could step into a workhorse role on a run-first offense. He possesses the talent and pedigree to be a top-15 running back in the second half of the season, making him a league-winner if he pans out.
Practical Tip: In fantasy drafts, it’s wise to take a low-risk approach. Don’t rely on Judkins as a core part of your team. If you decide to draft him, do so in the later rounds as a speculative pick. Pay close attention to news reports leading up to your draft, as the situation could change rapidly.
Recent Trends and Expert Opinions
The situation with Judkins is part of a broader trend of highly-drafted running backs facing unique challenges in the modern NFL.
The Devaluing of the Running Back: The league’s increasing emphasis on the passing game has led to a perceived devaluing of the running back position. This has resulted in fewer running backs being taken in the first round, as teams are hesitant to invest top-tier draft capital in a position with a short shelf life. Judkins, despite his elite college production, was a second-round pick, reflecting this trend.
Contract Disputes: The push for guaranteed money for second-round picks is a new and significant trend. Players and their agents are leveraging their draft status to secure financial security, forcing teams to reconsider their long-held contract philosophies.
The Personal Conduct Policy: The NFL has become more stringent in its application of the personal conduct policy, making it a critical factor in a player’s professional trajectory. Teams are now more cautious about signing players with any off-field issues, as the risk of a suspension or negative press can be significant.
According to a recent report from NBC Sports, Judkins is not considering a return to college football, despite some speculation. The report, citing an update from Cleveland Plain Dealer’s Mary Kay Cabot, suggests that while a return to the NCAA is theoretically possible through a legal challenge, it is not a path Judkins is pursuing. This news has provided some clarity for Browns fans, who can now focus on the contract and NFL investigation as the primary obstacles.
FAQs
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Quinshon Judkins and his current situation.
Has Quinshon Judkins signed his contract with the Cleveland Browns?
No, as of late 2025, Quinshon Judkins remains the only unsigned rookie from the 2025 NFL Draft class. His contract status is stalled due to a combination of a legal issue under NFL review and a dispute over contract guarantees.
Why were charges dropped against him, but the NFL is still investigating?
The legal system and the NFL’s personal conduct policy operate independently. While formal charges were dropped by legal authorities, the NFL has its own set of rules and standards for player behavior. The league’s investigation is separate and can still result in a suspension.
What is his projected role with the Browns if he signs?
If and when Judkins signs, he is expected to have a prominent role in the Browns’ offense. He was drafted to be a potential workhorse back and the de facto replacement for Nick Chubb. While he may be eased into action initially due to missing training camp, he is projected to eventually be the team’s lead running back.
Is it true that he considered returning to college football?
Reports from authoritative sources, including NBC Sports and Cleveland.com, indicate that Judkins is not considering a return to college football. This has been a rumor circulating due to his unsigned status, but it has been refuted by those close to the situation.
What are his career college stats?
Over his three-year collegiate career (two seasons at Ole Miss, one at Ohio State), Quinshon Judkins amassed impressive statistics. He finished with 3,785 rushing yards and 45 rushing touchdowns. He also contributed in the passing game with 59 receptions for 442 yards and 5 touchdowns.
Final Thoughts
The Quinshon Judkins news cycle is a microcosm of the challenges facing modern athletes and the evolving landscape of professional football. His story is a blend of immense talent, collegiate success, and a professional roadblock that has left his immediate future in limbo. For the Cleveland Browns, his unsigned status represents a significant roster hole as they prepare for the season. For Judkins, it is a test of patience and a critical moment in his young career.
As a player, Judkins’ on-field resume is beyond reproach. His blend of power, agility, and vision makes him a unique and valuable asset. The outcome of his contract dispute and the NFL’s investigation will determine when, and if, he can unleash that talent at the professional level. The football world will be watching closely, as this story has all the makings of a defining moment for a young star.
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