Browns’ Nick Chubb placed on PUP, expected to miss at least 4 games

BEREA, Ohio — The Cleveland Browns will likely keep running back Nick Chubb on the Physically Unable to Perform list, as reported by league sources. This decision means Chubb will not participate in the first four games of the regular season.

Chubb is currently rehabilitating from a severe left knee injury that he sustained during Week 2 of the 2023 season. The injury sidelined him for the remainder of the year and necessitated two surgical procedures. His first surgery took place in late September, focusing on repairing the medial capsule, meniscus, and MCL. The subsequent surgery occurred in November to address damage to his ACL.

The Browns are optimistic that the 28-year-old Chubb will be able to play this season, but they have not provided a definitive timeline for his return. General manager Andrew Berry mentioned in late July that Chubb still has “a little ways to go” in his recovery process. Just days prior to Berry’s statement, Chubb was observed engaging in full-speed sprints and light agility drills during a post-practice workout.

Chubb’s impressive career includes four Pro Bowl selections and over 1,000 rushing yards in four consecutive seasons, culminating in a personal best of 1,525 yards in 2022. This marked his second major left knee injury; he previously tore his MCL, PCL, and LCL while playing at the University of Georgia in 2015.

In Chubb’s absence, Jerome Ford is expected to take on the lead role in the Browns’ backfield. Ford had a strong performance last season, finishing as the team’s leading rusher with 813 yards.

The situation leaves the Browns in a challenging position as they navigate the early part of the season without one of their star players. Chubb’s ability to return to form will be crucial for Cleveland’s playoff aspirations this year.