Browns Break Silence on Quinshon Judkins Situation

Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski broke his silence on the recent off-field incident involving rookie running back Quinshon Judkins.

Judkins, a second-round pick in this year’s draft, was arrested on July 12 and charged with misdemeanor domestic battery. The charge stems from an incident on July 7, in which he is accused of physically assaulting the woman during an argument that began at the airport and escalated in a rental vehicle.

According to the police report, Judkins allegedly struck the woman in the mouth and chin with a closed fist, then hit her multiple times on the arm and thigh. The woman waited five days before contacting authorities, citing concerns about how the allegations might affect Judkins’ NFL career. She said in the 911 call that she has “a lot more of my story to tell.”

Stefanski emphasized that the organization is taking the matter seriously and remains committed to holding its players to a higher standard.

“This is something we take very seriously. It’s not something we want to be a part of. We want to be shining a light on the good things our guys are doing in this community,” Stefanski said. “Having said that, the league mandates a certain amount of education in all areas, but certainly this area. We decide to go above and beyond that. We will continue to do that. If there are more ways we can reach players in any area of education, we will continue to do that.”

Browns Rookie RB Quinshon Judkins Remains Unsigned

Stefanski added that the team is still gathering information, deferring some questions about Judkins to general manager Andrew Berry, who will speak to the media on Thursday.

“Ask Andrew tomorrow,” Stefanski said. “I can’t add much to it. That’s something I’m sure Andrew can address.”

What complicates Judkins’ situation is that he remains unsigned, creating uncertainty about his future in Cleveland. He’s one of only two rookie second-round picks who are without a signed contract.

Judkins’ legal process is still unfolding, but a suspension appears likely. The NFL’s baseline punishment for domestic violence incidents is a six-game suspension, though the exact length can be adjusted based on the outcome of the investigation and any mitigating or aggravating factors. Like the Browns, the NFL has said it is still gathering information.

Browns RB Jerome Ford Dealing With Injury

With Judkins unavailable, the Browns will turn to Jerome Ford and rookie Dylan Sampson to shoulder the backfield duties. Sampson, a fourth-round pick, enters his first NFL season with a big opportunity, while Ford stayed in the mix by agreeing to a pay cut earlier this offseason.

Cleveland’s running back depth was already a concern, and it’s now even thinner with Ford sidelined due to an apparent injury, according to Scott Petrak of BrownsZone.com.

Ford has made 18 starts over three seasons with the Browns, compiling 1,390 rushing yards and seven touchdowns. He’s also contributed as a receiver out of the backfield, hauling in 81 passes for 544 yards.

Pierre Strong Jr. and undrafted rookie Ahmani Marshall will also be in the mix.