The Cleveland Browns have struggled to get their running game going through the first five games of the 2026 season. The rushing attack ranks near the bottom of the league at 25th, largely because the offensive line hasn’t created enough gaps.
They need to find a way to get their ground game going if they want to become a more consistent offense. With running back Dylan Sampson potentially on the way, they hope to turn things around before facing the Baltimore Ravens next week.
Browns’ Run Game Must Get Going to Remain in Contention
Offensive Line Struggles Continue
The offensive line has struggled in the brown and orange this year and is one of the biggest reasons why the running game is very inconsistent. Through the first five games, the line has been ranked one of the worst in the NFL this season, with its Pro Football Focus grade for run-blocking at 28th in the league. The front five have also struggled in pass protection, ranking 31st in the NFL.
One of the biggest challenges this year has been the number of new arrivals up front. While some rookies are having success at skill positions for Cleveland, two rookies are going through growing pains on the line. Spencer Fano and Austin Barber, have earned spots in the starting lineup, but are still adjusting to the NFL. With so many new faces along the line, the group is still learning how to play together, as they have shown a lack of chemistry.
These struggles have made it difficult for running back Quinshon Judkins to find success on the ground. He is averaging just three yards per carry through five games, showing how poor the run blocking has been. Judkins has also struggled to produce the same way he did last season, but the offensive line needs to give him more opportunities to make plays.
A Steady Decline Since Nick Chubb
The running game has also seen a steady decline since Nick Chubb was the leader of the offense. During the 2022 season, they finished sixth in total rushing offense, with Chubb helping establish one of the league’s most productive ground attacks.
They continued to have success in 2023, finishing 12th in total rushing yards with 2,017 and 11th in rushing yards per game at 118.6, even with Chubb only playing half the season. Since then, they have struggled to find the same consistency on the ground.
The offensive line has trended in the wrong direction over the past few seasons. Back in the 2022 season, Cleveland had one of the league’s strongest units, finishing 6th in PFF’s season ranking for run blocking. Now, they are trying to rebuild that same success with young rookies and a group that is still learning to play together.
Help Could Be on the Way
There could be some help for the running game soon, as Sampson may return to practice this week. Sampson has been on the injured reserve since suffering a left knee injury in the season opener against Jacksonville.
His return would add another option in the backfield and could help take some pressure off Judkins. Sampson has shown to be a valuable receiving option during his rookie campaign, and getting him back could help bolster the struggling ground attack.
The Last Word
Todd Monken has done a good job of getting the most out of his team, but the Browns need to get their running game going if they want to remain competitive this season. The offensive line has not done enough to create running lanes, while Judkins has not been meeting standards. With Sampson’s potential return this week, it could be a boost to the offense, as a stronger receiving back comes back into the fold. If Cleveland wants to continue to win this season, they will need to improve their run blocking to get their ground game under control.
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