Cleveland Browns General Manager Andrew Berry stated on Thursday that rookie running back Quinsion Judkins likely won’t be seen at training camp anytime soon. Judkins remains unsigned after being arrested on July 12 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, facing battery and domestic violence charges. Berry emphasized that it’s still early to make decisions regarding Judkins’ signing or participation, as the team is still gathering information about the situation.
The Browns picked Judkins 36th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft following an impressive season at Ohio State, where he ran for 1,060 yards and scored 14 touchdowns. Alongside Cincinnati’s Shemar Stewart (17th overall), Judkins is one of the only unsigned draft picks in the NFL, with Berry suggesting the delay is more due to off-field issues than financial disagreements.
Berry noted the unique circumstances of this year’s second-round draft and stressed the importance of thorough vetting, especially with recent off-field incidents affecting their players. This summer marks the second year in a row the Browns have dealt with domestic violence issues — Mike Hall Jr., their 2024 second-round defensive tackle, was arrested during training camp on similar charges and subsequently suspended for five games.
Berry expressed concern about the seriousness of these allegations and the considerable effort the organization has invested in player education and vetting to prevent such situations. Additionally, another player, quarterback Shedur Sanders, faced legal trouble for speeding tickets in June, prompting further internal discussions.
Overall, Berry and the Browns are prioritizing the integrity and character of their team members as they navigate these challenges.
Fan Take: This news is crucial for NFL fans as it highlights the increasing importance teams place on character and off-field behavior, not just talent. How organizations handle these sensitive issues could significantly impact the sport’s reputation and player accountability moving forward.