# Cleveland Browns running back injury crisis

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/cleveland-browns-running-back-injury-crisis
> Updated: 2026-10-16T08:38:40.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 3.

The Cleveland Browns are experiencing a shortage of depth in their running back rotation due to several injuries. Initially, head coach Todd Monken described Quinshon Judkins’ ankle injury as a “tweak,” while backup Raheim Sanders was also noted to be dealing with a hip injury.

Following a 17-12 loss to the New York Jets, the situation escalated as Sanders was placed on injured reserve for at least four games. To mitigate the depleted backfield, the Browns signed Audric Estime from the Minnesota Vikings’ practice squad. Estime, a former fifth-round pick, may be expected to assist with pass protection to support quarterback Deshaun Watson.

Heading into Week 6 against the Baltimore Ravens, the depth chart remains unstable but shows signs of recovery. Quinshon Judkins has returned to practice and was observed walking without a boot or a limp, despite previously wearing one as a precaution. Additionally, Dylan Sampson has returned to practice after his 21-day window from injured reserve opened. Jaleel McLaughlin remains a key depth option if Judkins or Sampson are unavailable.

## Claims

- The Cleveland Browns are scheduled to play the Baltimore Ravens in Week 6. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- Quinshon Judkins was observed walking through the locker room without a walking boot and without limping. (single source)
- Browns coach Todd Monken described the use of a walking boot for Judkins as a precaution following an ankle tweak. (single source)
- Quinshon Judkins returned to practice following his ankle injury. (single source)
- Dylan Sampson has had his 21-day practice window opened after being on injured reserve. (single source)
- Raheim Sanders has been placed on injured reserve. (single source)

## Timeline

### 2026-10-16: Cleveland Browns running back depth chart faces injury uncertainty

The Cleveland Browns face running back uncertainty for Week 6 against the Ravens as Quinshon Judkins returns to practice following an ankle injury, alongside updates on Dylan Sampson and Raheim Sanders.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cleveland-browns-running-back-depth-chart-faces-injury-uncertainty

### 2026-10-13: Cleveland Browns sign Audric Estime amid running back injuries

The Cleveland Browns have signed Audric Estime to bolster a depleted running back corps following Raheim Sanders' placement on injured reserve due to a hip injury.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cleveland-browns-sign-audric-estime-amid-running-back-injuries

### 2026-10-12: Cleveland Browns running backs face multiple injuries

The Cleveland Browns face a running back shortage as Quinshon Judkins deals with an ankle injury and Raheim Sanders manages a hip injury ahead of Week 6.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cleveland-browns-running-backs-face-multiple-injuries

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Cite as: Cleveland Browns running back injury crisis. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/cleveland-browns-running-back-injury-crisis