Cleveland Browns Cut RB Following Quinshon Judkins' Rookie Return Amid NFL Investigation

The Cleveland Browns have cleared a roster spot by releasing running back Trayveon Williams to make room for second-round rookie Quinshon Judkins, who is expected to practice this week and could make his NFL debut in Week 2 against the Baltimore Ravens. Judkins, who was drafted to help address the Browns' running game, faced misdemeanor domestic violence charges that were dismissed, but the NFL continues to investigate potential personal conduct violations, with Judkins scheduled to meet the league this week. Despite missing the season opener due to these off-field issues and ongoing investigations, Judkins has signed a fully guaranteed four-year contract worth $11.4 million and is anticipated to be integrated gradually into the Browns' running back rotation, which currently features Jerome Ford as the presumed starter along with rookies Dylan Sampson and Raheim Sanders. The Browns’ Week 1 performance exposed struggles in their ground game, rushing for only 49 yards, highlighting the potential impact Judkins could have once available. While a suspension remains a possibility, Judkins remains eligible to play pending the NFL's final decision, with sources optimistic about his Week 2 debut.