The Cleveland Browns are expected to let star running back Nick Chubb enter free agency. Here are some potential replacements for the four-time Pro Bowler in the 2025 NFL Draft. Per Andrew Berry, the Cleveland Browns are not expected to re-sign Nick Chubb, meaning Chubb will be an unrestricted free agent in March.
While the Browns have some nice rotational pieces at the running back positions, they don’t have a top-tier running back that can carry a full workload like Chubb did before his injury. Take a look at who we think the Browns could take in the 2025 NFL Draft to replace the former second-round pick out of Georgia.
Potential Nick Chubb Replacements in the NFL Draft
The Browns hold the second overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, which I highly doubt they will look to spend on a running back. Therefore, all the prospects below would be targeted with the Browns’ second-round pick (No. 33 overall) and their third-round pick (No. 67 overall).
1) Omarion Hampton, UNC Tar Heels
Omarion Hampton is the second-best running back in this draft class (behind Ashton Jeanty) and has a real shot of being taken in the first round. However, if the former UNC superstar falls to No. 33, I don’t see the Browns being able to pass up on him.
Hampton isn’t the fastest back but has a high motor and accelerates to top speed quickly. He’s got great footwork and is a decisive runner who hits holes quickly. He’s agile in space and consistently makes defenders miss in the open field. Hampton could also be relied upon in the passing game as a receiving threat.
2) TreVeyon Henderson, Ohio State Buckeyes
Henderson is another prospect I could see being taken in the first round, but if he’s available at 33, the Browns would be happy to take him.
MORE: Scouting Reports on the Top 100 Prospects
Henderson has an elite burst and great speed, making him a home-run threat every time he touches the football. He’s also a great receiver out of the backfield and a natural and smooth route runner. By picking him, the Browns would be able to keep the Ohio legend in-state to replace Chubb.
3) Cam Skattebo, Arizona State Sun Devils
When I think of a back in this draft class that would embody Cleveland the best, It’d be Cam Skattebo. The browns shouldn’t have to use their second-round pick on Skatebo and could select him with one of their two third-round picks.
Skatebo is quite literally the most physically tough prospect I’ve scouted. He plays with intense energy and a high motor. While he doesn’t have elite track speed, he’s fast enough to succeed at the next level, and his willingness to fight for every yard makes up for his lack of raw athleticism. Again, I don’t think there’s a back who fits in better in Cleveland.
4) LeQuint Allen, Syracuse Orange
I recently mocked LeQuint Allen to Cleveland in my Browns mock draft and really like his fit there. Allen could be available at 67 or 94, which are both the Browns’ third-round picks.
Allen is a do-it-all back who has an endless motor. He has great contact balance and consistently will break arm tackles. Allen is an elite receiving back who racked up over 60 catches in 2024. Allen can also be relied upon as a pass blocker, only allowing one pressure on 144 pass-blocking attempts. The former Syracuse star would be a nice replacement for Chubb.
5) D.J. Giddens, Kansas State Wildcats
D.J. Giddens was mocked by the Browns by my colleague Will Helms in his 7-Round NFL Mock Draft, and I like the fit a lot. Giddens isn’t as highly touted as some of the other guys on this list, but I think he’s going to be a great NFL back
KEEP READING: 2025 NFL Draft Top 300 Big Board
While Giddens isn’t an athletic freak he’s got great contact balance and is a hard-nose physical runner of the football. He stands at 6’1″ and weighs 212 pounds, a frame that will transfer over well to the league. His physical nature would make him a great replacement for Chubb.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in football, basketball, and more!
