Predicting Cleveland Browns 53-man roster after the offseason program
By Dan Justik
Running backs (3)
Nick Chubb, Kareem Hunt*, Dontrell Hilliard
After the Cleveland Browns signed Kareem Hunt in February, it became clear that they had put together one of the best running back rooms in all of football.
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With Nick Chubb emerging as a play-maker during his rookie season, Hunt being one of the best backs in the league the past two seasons, and Duke Johnson’s ability to catch out of the backfield, there was talent up and down the depth chart.
However, that changed when Johnson requested a trade before the Browns started their offseason program. And Johnson has made it clear that the organization cannot reconcile the relationship and that he wants off the team. As injuries occur during training camp, the Browns should be able to find a trade partner before the regular season starts.
And with Johnson missing time during the offseason program, Dontrell Hilliard reportedly showed is he more than capable of filling Johnson’s role. His performance during camp will also make it easier for the Browns to move on from Johnson.
There is little to no doubt that Hunt will make the 53-man roster, but he will not technically be a part of the roster to start the season because of his suspension. Until he returns from his suspension, the Browns will likely sign a cheap veteran free agent to fill his roster spot.