Key Takeaways

• Cleveland’s run game struggled in a 17-12 defeat to the New York Jets, prompting personnel changes as the team searches for a spark in the backfield.
• Audric Estime, 23, was signed off the Vikings’ practice squad to join the Browns’ 53-man roster after previously playing for the Saints and drawing as a preseason rushing leader there.
• Estime has 508 rushing yards on 122 carries across 20 NFL games, with 130 receiving yards and 3 total TDs, giving Cleveland a veteran option with immediate availability.
• Injuries to Quinshon Judkins and the absence of backup Dylan Sampson have left the Browns with limited depth, relying on aging or less productive options beside Jaleel McLaughlin.
• Deshaun Watson, the 31-year-old quarterback, has been the team’s second-leading rusher, highlighting the persistent strain on the backfield and the urgency for a running-game lift.
• Estime’s signing is viewed as a measured contribution rather than a permanent fix, intended to speed production without jeopardizing Judkins’ long-term recovery or workload management.
• Cleveland has a window to acclimate Estime before facing the Baltimore Ravens, with plans to integrate him into the playbook to ensure readiness for the upcoming game.