4 Browns who have hurt their impending free agent stock

No. 1: Kareem Hunt, Running Back

Since arriving in Cleveland back in 2019, Kareem Hunt has been toting the rock alongside Nick Chubb and the tandem was dubbed the best one-two punch in the NFL. The two backs complient each other wonderfully, but in 2022, Hunt has seemed to be stuck in first gear.

Back in August, Hunt requested a trade. The Browns did not acquiesce to that request, wanting to keep him alongside Chubb. He clearly wanted an extension to stay with his hometown team, but that was likely never going to happen, or at least for the money he would have wanted.

Instead, Cleveland hung onto Hunt hoping he could get back to 2020 form after dealing with injuries most of 2021. That just hasn’t been the case this season and in turn, Hunt has hurt his impending free-agent stock.

Barring unforeseen circumstances, Hunt will likely be on his third team in his sixth professional season. Many teams around the league will look to sign him and either make him a starter or put him alongside their own starter.

During this season, Hunt just hasn’t looked the same as he has rushed 110 times for 447 yards and three touchdowns while averaging a career-worst 4.1 yards per carry. He used to be a force in the passing game but has only caught 28 passes for 182 yards and a single touchdown.

Fans won’t want to see him go as he is a favorite, but the NFL is a business, and business decisions are made each and every year. Hunt likely won’t get the money he will command, but there is a slim chance a team gives him what he wants. That team will not be the Browns, so if he does return in 2023, he will have to accept a lesser contract.