Nick Chubb’s long-awaited return and a much-needed boost is on the horizon for the Cleveland Browns. A four-time Pro Bowler, Chubb is the marquee name on a list of NFL players on reserve lists who’ll return to practice this week, according to NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport.
Selected in the second round of the 2018 draft, Chubb amassed 6,511 rushing yards prior to his Week 2 injury last season. Only the ageless Derrick Henry (7,244) had more from 2018 until Chubb left the field last Sept. 18 at Pittsburgh with a torn ACL and damaged meniscus in his left knee.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski said Monday that, after multiple surgeries and a hard-fought rehabilitation, Chubb will begin a 21-day practice window during which the Browns have the ability to activate him. That could happen as early as the Browns’ game at Washington (3-1) on Sunday (1 p.m. ET, FOX), but more likely the following week at Philadelphia.
Behind an offensive line decimated by injury, Cleveland (1-3) ranks last in the league in yards per play (3.86) and third-down efficiency (20.8 percent). Quarterback Deshaun Watson has yet to reach 200 yards passing in a game this season.
Other players expected to open practice windows this week, Rapoport said:
- Dolphins wide receiver Odell Beckham.
- Patriots wide receiver Kendrick Bourne.
- Chargers wide receiver D.J. Chark.
- Chiefs running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire.
- Saints running back Kendre Miller.