Quinshon Judkins injury update from Todd Monken offers hope for Browns RB’s Week 7 return

The Cleveland Browns did not have their top running back, Quinshon Judkins, on the field for the Week 6 game against the Baltimore Ravens, but it appears he could be back this week.

When speaking to reporters before practice on Wednesday afternoon, Browns head coach Todd Monken revealed that he is optimistic both Judkins and Dylan Sampson will play in Week 7 versus the Tennessee Titans, according to ESPN’s Daniel Oyefusi.

“Browns coach Todd Monken said he is optimistic RBs Quinshon Judkins and Dylan Sampson will be able to play on Sunday against the Titans,” Oyefusi said.

Judkins suffered an ankle injury in the Week 5 loss to the New York Jets.

There was optimism about his future outlook last week after he was able to close out the week with a limited practice after not taking part over the first two days. However, the second-year running back was ultimately ruled out on Sunday.

Sampson has been on injured reserve since Sept. 15, although he was designated to return last week, which was the first sign he was close to getting back.

Without both Judkins and Sampson in the lineup against the Ravens, the Browns leaned on a combination of Jaleel McLaughlin and Audric Estime, both of whom tallied nine carries.

McLaughlin had more success with his carries, though, as he tallied 41 rushing yards to Estime’s 19. McLaughlin also handled four receptions on four targets.

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Cleveland Browns running back Quinshon Judkins (10) hauls in a reception against linebacker Dennis Gardeck (47) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football matchup at EverBank Stadium on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars defeated the Browns 34-10. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union] Credit: USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect (Reuters)

It isn’t all his fault, but it has been a tough season for Judkins through six weeks.

The former second-round pick is averaging just 44.2 rushing yards per game, which is nearly 15 yards per fewer than what he averaged during his impressive rookie campaign. Judkins is only averaging three yards per carry and has found pay dirt once.

Judkins has been more involved in the passing game, though, with 18 receptions for 102 yards in five games as compared to his 26 catches for 171 yards in 14 games last season.

Offensive line play has contributed to Judkins’ lackluster production, with the Browns ranked 24th in run-block win rate at 71%, according to ESPN.

The Browns are hoping better days are ahead for their rushing attack because Cleveland can’t hope to have much success on offense with the one-dimensional attack it sports now.