The Cleveland Browns have an obvious need at running back, and Bucky Irving or Audric Estime could fit the bill in the 2024 NFL draft.
Though it had its moments, the running back position was subpar in Cleveland after Nick Chubb suffered a season-ending knee injury. The Browns stuck with Jerome Ford as their lead back, and he showed flashes but not enough to think he is the long-term back for the Browns.
Though it isn’t as good of a running back class as last year, there are still plenty of options in this year’s draft. With no true superstars at the top, the Browns could find themselves on the board in the second round with no running backs gone before their first pick.
General manager Andrew Berry will likely find a way to re-work Chubb’s contract to bring him back, but the Browns must think about getting a long-term option at the position, and drafting one early would do just that.
Here are four running back options Cleveland should consider when April’s draft arrives.
Texas Longhorns running back Jonathon Brooks (24) runs the ball against Texas Christian University at Amon G. Carter Stadium on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023 in Fort Worth, Texas.
Jonathon Brooks is the best running back in this year’s class in my opinion and if the Browns want to find a successor to Chubb and Brooks is on the board they must pounce on it. He was buried on the depth chart last year but Brooks got his chance this year before his injury and boy did he deliver.
Brooks is a big play waiting to happen with the best vision in the class who will find a cutback lane if it is there. He isn’t just a speedy back as he has great contact balance and power to get extra yardage consistently.
Brooks screams Andrew Berry’s pick as he will only be 21 as a rookie and has the most upside of any runner in this year’s class.
Jonathon Brooks is silky smooth and patient.
pic.twitter.com/uTvB62vwi2— Alfredo Brown (@ThePretendGM) January 30, 2024
Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
If you are looking for elite topline speed at the position Oregon’s Bucky Irving is the guy for you. He accelerates in a hurry and he probably has the best top speed of anyone in this class. This year for the Ducks he averaged over six yards per carry with 11 touchdowns and a ridiculous 69 forced missed tackles.
When you add in Irving’s ability as a pass catcher you get a fun prospect that could make an impact early as a rookie. The…
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