JUST-IN: Disaster Strikes: Arrest, Suspension, and Contract Chaos Hit Browns As They Get Bad News on Quinshon Judkins As Top Rookie Faces Legal Trouble AND Contract Drama

The Cleveland Browns are likely to begin the upcoming season without rookie running back Quinshon Judkins.

Judkins, a second-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, was arrested on July 12 and charged with misdemeanor domestic battery following an alleged altercation with his girlfriend.

Although the legal proceedings are ongoing, a suspension seems probable. The NFL’s standard punishment for domestic violence cases is a six-game suspension, though that can vary depending on the findings of the league’s investigation and any relevant circumstances.

Both the NFL and the Browns have acknowledged the incident and are continuing to collect information. Browns insider Mary Kay Cabot (cleveland.com) expressed doubt that Judkins will avoid disciplinary action.

“When we saw the allegations and details in the police report, it’s hard to imagine the NFL not suspending him,” Cabot said during an appearance on 92.3 The Fan’s “Baskin & Phelps.” “It’s unfortunate. There didn’t seem to be any warning signs before this. If there were, they were well hidden. I hadn’t heard of any character issues.”

Judkins’ Contract Situation Adds Complexity

Rookies are set to report to training camp this Friday, but it’s uncertain if Judkins will be present. He’s the only unsigned Browns draft pick, holding out in hopes of securing a fully guaranteed contract — a common stance among second-rounders.

Given his arrest, Cabot suggested the Browns would be wise to pause contract talks until more information is available.

“From a public perception standpoint alone, it would make sense to wait before committing to a fully guaranteed deal — which is what he’s been pushing for,” Cabot said. “The team is still working on gathering all the facts.”

Quinshon Judkins.

This situation is reminiscent of last year’s incident with defensive tackle Mike Hall Jr., who was already under contract when his off-field issues surfaced. Although Judkins could theoretically participate in camp without a signed deal, doing so would significantly weaken his bargaining position.

“There’s a scenario where he practices until the NFL intervenes,” Cabot added.

Browns May Seek Additional Running Back Help

If Judkins is suspended, the Browns are expected to consider adding another running back to bolster the roster. Currently, their backfield consists of rookie Dylan Sampson, Jerome Ford, and Pierre Strong Jr.

“They’ll approach it carefully,” Cabot said. “Once they receive clarity on Judkins’ status, they may look to bring in another back.”

The free-agent market is limited this late in the offseason, but former Browns players like D’Onta Foreman and D’Ernest Johnson are still unsigned.

Veteran players report to Browns training camp on July 22, and their first preseason game is scheduled for August 8 against the Carolina Panthers.