The 2023 season proved tumultuous for the Cleveland Browns, with the spotlight initially on the quarterback situation before star running back Nick Chubb suffered a severe knee injury during Week 2 against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Chubb endured injuries to both his MCL and ACL, prompting season-ending surgery. Currently, deep in the rehabilitation process, Chubb’s progress has been encouraging, with Brown’s general manager Andrew Berry expressing confidence in his recovery.
“Very aggressively … since the fall,” stated Berry regarding Chubb’s rehabilitation progress. “He actually started running on land this past week. That’s not to say he’s through the woods or anything.”
Chubb’s injury occurred in mid-September, and while some running backs with similar knee injuries have returned by training camp, the timeline can vary depending on severity. Given Chubb’s pivotal role in the Browns’ offense, the team aims for his return at the earliest feasible juncture while prioritizing his long-term health and readiness.
Chubb’s Rehabilitation Progress Fuels Optimism for Browns
Berry expressed strong optimism regarding Chubb’s rehabilitation progress, stating that the running back is “progressing appropriately.” The next few weeks and months will be crucial for his return to full strength.
Chubb is in the final year of his three-year, $36.6 million contract extension signed in 2021. Earlier in the offseason, he agreed to a pay cut, reducing his base salary from $11.775 million to $1.125 million. This adjustment provides the Browns with essential cap flexibility, particularly with Deshaun Watson’s fully guaranteed contract and the uncertainty surrounding Chubb’s recovery timeline.
Approaching his age-29 season, Chubb may enter the phase of his career where performance declines, but his consistently high effectiveness, averaging over 5.0 yards per carry every year, suggests he can still contribute significantly. Even if he experiences a drop-off, Chubb’s potential to maintain value in the league beyond the upcoming season remains considerable.
