A rookie player for the Cleveland Browns was arrested on Saturday in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on charges related to domestic violence and battery, according to police and Broward County records. The 21-year-old, Judkins, appeared in court Sunday morning where his bond was set at $2,500. The charges, described as misdemeanor “touch or strike/battery/domestic violence,” were confirmed by Fort Lauderdale Police Sergeant David Soika.
During the bond hearing, a judge established probable cause and ordered Judkins to have no contact with the accuser and barred him from accessing firearms. Judkins was released from Broward County Jail later that Sunday. Police responded to battery complaints around 9 a.m. Saturday and detained Judkins after investigating the allegations.
The incident reportedly happened the previous Monday but was only reported on Saturday. According to the arrest report, Judkins allegedly struck the woman in the jaw and lip area while driving away from Fort Lauderdale International Airport, expressing frustration over a family text message. Additional alleged physical attacks involved his left arm and thigh, with the accuser showing bruises to officers as evidence.
When questioned about the delay in reporting, the woman said she felt ill due to Judkins’ recent career success but was encouraged by family and friends to come forward. The pair reportedly resumed a romantic relationship in June 2025. Judkins exercised his Miranda rights during police questioning. His attorney, David Weinstein, suggested to the judge that the state was exaggerating and implied the accuser was encouraged to act against Judkins.
A Browns spokesperson said the team is gathering more information, and an NFL official acknowledged awareness of the situation but declined to comment further. Judkins was the 36th overall pick in the 2025 draft and remains the only Browns draft pick from that year yet to sign a rookie contract.
Fan Take: This incident highlights the ongoing issue of off-field conduct among NFL players, reminding fans that character and accountability are as important as talent. The league and teams must continue to address such matters seriously to protect the integrity of the sport and its community.
