Cleveland Browns
· 2026-07-09
The Cleveland Browns' running back room has a glaring flaw, according to one NFL analyst. The team sits 13th in the American Football Conference with a 5-12 record, currently on a W2 streak. That record masks a deeper issue in the backfield.
The analyst didn't hold back. He pointed to a lack of proven depth behind the starter. The Browns have one clear lead back, but the guys behind him haven't shown they can carry the load if he goes down.
Injuries hit the position hard last season. The team cycled through multiple backs, and the run game suffered. When the starter missed time, the offense stalled. That's a problem for a team that wants to control the clock.
Cleveland's offense needs a reliable ground game to take pressure off the quarterback. With a 5-12 record, the Browns can't afford to be one-dimensional. A weak running back room makes them predictable.
The team's next game is against the Jacksonville Jaguars on September 13, 2026. That's a chance to prove the doubters wrong. But if the depth issue isn't fixed, defenses will stack the box and dare the Browns to throw.
General manager Andrew Berry has options. He could add a veteran free agent before training camp. Or he could target a running back in the draft. The Browns have picks, and the 2026 class has some intriguing mid-round options.
Another route: scheme adjustments. Offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey could use more two-back sets or motion to create mismatches. But that only masks the problem. Real fixes require better personnel.
The Browns have time before the season starts. But the clock is ticking. Training camp battles will reveal if any young back can step up. If not, expect a move before the Jaguars game.
Cleveland's 5-12 record shows they need upgrades everywhere. The running back room is just one piece. But it's a piece that could make or break the offense in 2026.