Despite the Cleveland Browns’ challenging 2-6 record and the trade speculation swirling around Nick Chubb, the team’s latest decision regarding their star running back should put any such rumors to rest. Chubb made his much-anticipated return in Week 7, over a year after his last appearance, bringing new energy to the Browns’ offense and fans. The four-time Pro Bowler had been sidelined since suffering a severe knee injury in Week 2 last season, which required two surgeries and extensive rehabilitation.
Chubb gradually returned to action, recording 16 carries for 52 yards in last week’s win over the Baltimore Ravens. When fully healthy, Chubb stands as one of the NFL’s elite running backs, often drawing interest in trade discussions. Yet, speculation about his departure seems unwarranted; the Browns reaffirmed their commitment by naming him a team captain this week.
Chubb steps into a captain’s role formerly held by Deshaun Watson, who is out for the season due to a ruptured Achilles. “I named him a season-long captain with Deshaun not out there,” head coach Kevin Stefanski stated on Friday, underscoring Chubb’s significance to both the Browns and Cleveland.
This offseason, Chubb agreed to a restructured contract that benefited both sides, expressing appreciation for the Browns in a letter to *The Players’ Tribune*: “I had no guaranteed money left. The Browns had all the leverage, but they supported me. You all had my back.” Chubb, who has racked up 6,585 rushing yards and 49 touchdowns with Cleveland, will enter free agency next offseason.
