​BEREA — The Browns are approaching their first full-squad training camp practice, scheduled for July 29, the day after the veterans report. This continues our Browns training camp preview series, examining each of the team’s position groups. Today’s focus is on a relatively young but crucial unit: the running backs.
Let’s dive into the group that will help lay a foundation for the Browns’ offense in 2026. The position represents a mix of promising youth and potential contributors who could shape the team’s success this season. The running backs will be pivotal in establishing balance, providing both rushing and receiving options, and offsetting the wear on the quarterback room with versatile plays and reliable protection in pass scenarios.
Among the players expected to compete for roles is Quinshon Judkins, who stepped into a prominent spot as a rookie and demonstrated the kind of dynamic production that could anchor the backfield. In 2025, Judkins appeared in 14 games, starting 14 times, and finished with 230 rushing attempts for 827 yards and seven touchdowns. He also contributed as a receiver, hauling in 26 catches for 171 yards. His versatility and production from the backfield positioned him as a clear candidate to be the focal point of Cleveland’s ground game, provided he continues to progress and maintain the durability needed for a heavy workload.
Another key name in the mix is Raheim “Rocket” Sanders. In 2025, Sanders played in four games with one start, recording 27 carries for 92 yards and one touchdown, along with three receptions for 21 yards. While his sample size was smaller, his burst and big-play ability give Cleveland a potential spark option who can contribute in both phases of the offense when called upon.
Dylan Sampson is also in the conversation. Last season, Sampson appeared in 15 games, starting two, and totaled 65 carries for 175 yards with 33 receptions for 271 yards and two touchdowns. His dual-threat skill set out of the backfield adds a valuable dimension to the Browns’ play-calling, providing the ability to create mismatches in the passing game as well as serve as a steady contributor on early downs.
Davis at Mississippi State in 2025, Davon Booth could add depth with his college experience and potential to contribute on special teams and in rotation packages. The Browns have also brought in players with backgrounds at other programs, including Michael Burton, who appeared in 17 games with the Denver Broncos in 2025, starting two and recording seven carries, and Ahmani Marshall, who spent time with the Browns’ practice squad in 2025. These players give Cleveland options for depth and competition that can push the top backs to elevate their level of play.
Quintessentially, Judkins is viewed as the top running back on the roster. With Sampson dealing with an undisclosed offseason injury that sidelined him during voluntary workouts, Sanders has a unique opportunity to impress and secure a more prominent role, potentially even moving into the No. 2 spot if Sampson remains limited. Sanders, who entered the league after being claimed off waivers from the Chargers, showed double-digit athleticism and a nose for the end zone in the opener against Cincinnati, scoring a touchdown in his first game. However, Judkins’ arrival and utilization last season pared into Sanders’ early opportunities, which could shift again as the offseason progresses and the coaching staff evaluates how best to deploy the backfield.
Looking ahead to 2026, the Browns are counting on Judkins to carry the load as the unquestioned lead back. He has already shown the ability to produce as a feature back when healthy, and his progress through the offseason program will be critical to the offense’s overall success. The team will be assessing how to optimize his touches, protect him from excessive workload, and maintain a balanced offensive attack that keeps defenses honest. The presence of Sampson, Sanders, and the other depth options provides Cleveland with a flexible toolkit to complement Judkins and to adapt to various game plans and opponent matchups.
As training camp opens and practices begin, all eyes will be on how this group gels, how the coaching staff manages workload, and how the young core continues to develop chemistry with the offense and quarterback Deshaun Watson. The running backs’ ability to establish a reliable foundation for the 2026 offense could be a key factor in determining how far the Browns push their competitive ceiling.