Nick Chubb’s long-awaited return could soon materialize nearly a year after he last set foot on an NFL field.
In Week 2 of last season, the 28-year-old suffered a catastrophic knee injury, which tore multiple ligaments and required multiple surgeries.
On Friday, Browns coach Kevin Stefanski revealed that he expects Chubb to play in Sunday’s game in Cleveland against their cross-state rival, the Cincinnati Bengals.
Additionally, Chubb, considered questionable to play, participated fully in practice this week.
‘It didn’t seem real. “It felt like a dream,” Chubb said upon his return to training. ‘I’ve been fighting this for a while. It was great to get all that off my chest and finally get back out there.’
Cleveland Browns running back Nick Chubb could return against Bengals on Sunday
Chubb hasn’t played since Week 2 of last season after tearing multiple ligaments in his knee.
While all signs point toward his long-awaited return, the veteran running back must be activated off the physically unable to perform list before officially returning.
Chubb began the final stretch of his recovery on October 3 after the team opened its 21-day window to return from PUP.
His presence on offense could be the shot of adrenaline the Browns need, who only have one win so far this season with a 1-5 record. Cleveland’s only win came in Week 2 against Jacksonville before suffering four straight losses.
The Browns have one of the worst offenses in the NFL, averaging 240.2 yards (32nd) and 15.8 points (29th) per game. While his return alone wouldn’t solve his obvious problems, it could provide a moment of inspiration to his frustrated fanbase.
When healthy, Chubb is one of the best running backs in the NFL. In 2022, he recorded 1,252 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns, earning his fourth consecutive Pro Bowl nod.
Now in his seventh year since being drafted by the Browns, Chubb has 1,238 carries for 6,511 yards and 48 touchdowns.