Cleveland Browns: Nick Chubb could win starting running back job
By Dan Justik
The expectation was that Carlos Hyde would be the Cleveland Browns starting running back this season, but Nick Chubb could make it harder on Hyde to win the job.
When the Cleveland Browns signed Carlos Hyde to a three-year, $15 million contract this off-season, it seemed like he was going to be the Browns starting running back in 2018.
But after the Browns used the 35th overall pick on Nick Chubb in the draft, it became a harder path to the starting job for Hyde. Although both have similar running styles, the Browns may opt for the younger back.
Duke Johnson will continue playing the same role he played last season – change of pace back that will move around the offense to create mismatches. Although he has the talent to be the starting running back, he is better used as a dynamic weapon instead of being in the backfield every snap.
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In a recent ESPN article previewing the rookie running backs, Browns reporter Pat McManamon said that Chubb will get a long look to be the starting running back.
"It’s early in the process, but Chubb has a chance to be the Browns’ starting running back. Chubb’s between-the-tackles ability and his work ethic will earn him a long look in training camp and preseason. It would not be surprising to see Chubb get the bulk of the every-down carries, especially early in games. The competition will be intriguing."
Chubb’s violent rushing style should translate well into the tough AFC North division. He does not have the breakaway speed like Johnson, but has enough speed to make it hard for defenders to catch him from behind.
Hyde will get the first cracks at the starting job, but he and Chubb will both likely get a similar amount of carries. If Chubb begins to outperform Hyde, it would not be a surprise to see him jump Hyde as the starter.
The interesting aspect of this scenario is the Browns have an out in Hyde’s three-year contract after 2018. If Chubb takes over as the starter, Hyde may not be in a Browns uniform in 2019.
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Although the Browns may not have one dominant back this season, they built a strong committee this off-season. They will not need to have one dominant back. However, there is a possibility that Chubb can take over the starting job and be a very good back for the Browns.