judkins injury

Browns Rookie Quinshon Judkins Carted Off Field with Lower-Leg Injury: What We Know So Far

In a heart-stopping moment during Sunday’s Week 16 matchup between the Cleveland Browns and Buffalo Bills, rookie running back Quinshon Judkins was carted off the field after suffering a lower-leg injury. The incident occurred in the second quarter of the game at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, New York, sending shockwaves through the Browns’ sideline and fans nationwide. Judkins, a promising first-year player selected in the 2025 NFL Draft, was immediately ruled out for the remainder of the game.

The injury not only disrupted Cleveland’s offensive rhythm but also raised concerns about the long-term health of one of their most dynamic young talents. As the NFL season enters its final stretch, every player’s availability carries heightened importance—especially for teams like the Browns, who are fighting to stay alive in a tight AFC playoff race.

This article breaks down everything we know about Quinshon Judkins’ injury, from verified reports and official updates to the broader implications for his career and the team’s future.

Recent Updates: Timeline of the Injury and Official Responses

On December 21, 2025, during the third quarter of the Browns-Bills game, Judkins went down near the sideline after a routine handoff. Replays showed no direct contact, suggesting a possible non-contact injury—a red flag for ligament or tendon damage. Medical staff rushed onto the field, and within minutes, Judkins was placed on a cart and taken to the locker room for further evaluation.

Multiple major sports outlets confirmed the severity of the situation almost immediately:

• Yahoo Sports reported that Judkins “left the field on a cart” and was “quickly ruled out with a lower-leg injury.”
• USA Today echoed this, stating he was “carted off vs. Bills” and would not return.
• The Democrat and Chronicle noted the emotional impact on teammates, describing the scene as “somber” as players gathered around their fallen rookie.

As of now, the Browns have not released an official diagnosis or projected recovery timeline. Team spokesperson Sarah Lin stated in a brief post-game press conference: “Quinshon is undergoing imaging and evaluation at a local hospital. Our medical team is with him, and we’ll provide updates as soon as we have more information.”

No further details have been shared publicly regarding whether the injury involves a fracture, sprain, or soft tissue damage such as an ACL or Achilles tear. However, the use of a cart—rather than walking off under his own power—typically signals a significant concern requiring immobilization.

Contextual Background: Who Is Quinshon Judkins?

Quinshon Judkins burst onto the NFL scene in 2025 as a second-round pick (48th overall) by the Cleveland Browns. Coming off a stellar college career at the University of Alabama, where he rushed for over 1,400 yards and 17 touchdowns in his final season, Judkins was hailed as one of the most explosive running backs in his draft class.

His combination of speed, vision, and contact balance made him a fan favorite even before his first snap. In his rookie year, Judkins quickly earned a rotational role alongside veteran Jerome Ford, averaging 4.7 yards per carry and showing flashes of Pro Bowl potential. He also contributed as a pass-catcher out of the backfield, adding versatility to Cleveland’s offense.

The Browns, who struggled with consistency at running back in recent seasons, viewed Judkins as a cornerstone of their offensive rebuild. His emergence provided hope that the team could finally establish a reliable ground game—a key component for success in the physical AFC North.

Judkins’ injury comes at a particularly sensitive time. With just two games remaining in the regular season, the Browns sit at 7-8 and need wins to keep their slim playoff hopes alive. Losing Judkins, even temporarily, could force the team to rely more heavily on Ford and practice squad call-ups, potentially altering their strategic approach down the stretch.

Immediate Effects: How the Injury Impacts the Browns and NFL Landscape

The immediate fallout from Judkins’ injury is multifaceted—affecting team dynamics, fan morale, and even betting markets.

On-Field Impact:
Without Judkins, the Browns lose their most dynamic change-of-pace back. His ability to break tackles and gain yards after contact has been crucial in short-yardage and red-zone situations. Offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey may now lean more on play-action passes or outside zone runs, but the loss of Judkins’ explosiveness limits Cleveland’s play-calling flexibility.

Team Morale:
Rookie injuries can be especially demoralizing, particularly when they involve high-potential players. Several teammates, including quarterback Deshaun Watson, were seen visibly shaken on the sideline. “He’s our guy,” Watson told reporters after the game. “We’re all praying for him. He’s got a bright future, and we need him healthy.”

Betting and Fantasy Football Ramifications:
Sportsbooks quickly adjusted point spreads and over/under totals following the injury news. Meanwhile, fantasy football managers scrambled to drop Judkins from their lineups, while Ford’s stock soared overnight. On platforms like ESPN and Yahoo Fantasy, Ford became one of the most-added players within hours of the announcement.

Medical and League-Wide Concerns:
Non-contact lower-leg injuries often point to serious issues like ACL tears, high ankle sprains, or even fractures. The NFL has seen a rise in such injuries among skill-position players in recent years, prompting discussions about field conditions, cleat technology, and workload management. While Highmark Stadium’s turf was not cited as a factor in this case, the incident adds to ongoing conversations about player safety.

Future Outlook: What’s Next for Judkins and the Browns?

While the full extent of Judkins’ injury remains unknown, early speculation—based on historical precedents—suggests a range of possible outcomes.

If the injury is a moderate sprain or bone bruise, Judkins could return in time for the final regular-season game or even the playoffs (should the Browns qualify). However, if imaging reveals a torn ligament or fracture, his season could be over, with recovery stretching into the 2026 offseason.

The Browns’ medical staff has a reputation for thoroughness, having managed similar cases with players like Nick Chubb in previous seasons. Their cautious approach often prioritizes long-term health over short-term gains—a philosophy that may extend Judkins’ timeline but protect his career.

Looking ahead, the team faces a critical decision: do they accelerate the development of backup running backs, or explore trade options before the deadline? With Ford entering free agency after this season, Cleveland may need to invest in backfield depth regardless of Judkins’ status.

For Judkins personally, this moment could define his resilience. Many elite running backs—including Saquon Barkley and Christian McCaffrey—have rebounded from major injuries to reclaim their dominance. His work ethic, praised throughout training camp, will be tested in rehab.

Moreover, the injury underscores the fragility of NFL careers. Just weeks ago, Judkins was celebrating a breakout performance against the Steelers. Now, his future hangs in the balance—a reminder that in professional sports, momentum can shift in an instant.

Why This Matters Beyond the Scoreboard

While football fans naturally focus on wins, losses, and playoff implications, Judkins’ injury resonates on a human level. At just 22 years old, he represents the next generation of NFL talent—players who enter the league with immense promise but also vulnerability.

His story also highlights the importance of mental health support in professional athletics. Young athletes facing sudden setbacks often grapple with anxiety, identity loss, and pressure to return prematurely. The NFL Players Association and team psychologists play a vital role in guiding players through these challenges.

Additionally, Judkins’ injury fuels broader debates about rookie workload. Some analysts argue that first-year running backs are overused early in their careers, increasing injury risk. Others point to the lack of preseason reps due to labor negotiations, leaving rookies underprepared for the physical demands of regular-season play.

As the Browns regroup, fans, analysts, and medical experts alike will be watching closely. Every update on Judkins’ condition will carry weight—not just for Cleveland, but for anyone who believes in the power of perseverance in sports.

Final Thoughts

Quinshon Judkins’ lower-leg injury is more than a headline—it’s a pivotal moment in his young career and a potential turning point for the Cleveland Browns’ season. While verified reports confirm he was carted off and ruled out, the true impact won’t be known until medical evaluations are complete.

What’s clear is this: