The Cleveland Browns have made a move to strengthen their running back corps by signing veteran running back Royce Freeman. The decision comes in the wake of the Browns’ need for more depth at the running back position after dealing with some uncertainty around injuries and player availability.
Freeman, 27, was a third-round pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, selected by the Denver Broncos after a standout collegiate career at the University of Oregon. During his time with the Broncos, Freeman showed promise as a reliable power back who could shoulder a significant portion of the rushing load. In his rookie season, Freeman rushed for 521 yards and five touchdowns, splitting duties with fellow Broncos back Phillip Lindsay. Over his first two seasons in Denver, Freeman tallied nearly 1,000 rushing yards and scored eight touchdowns.
Freeman’s versatility as a rusher and pass-catcher made him an appealing option for the Browns. During his NFL career, he’s proven to be capable in both phases of the game, racking up more than 1,500 rushing yards and over 600 receiving yards, giving Cleveland a dependable option in both running and passing situations. In addition to his time in Denver, Freeman has had stints with the Carolina Panthers and Houston Texans, where he continued to serve in rotational roles in the backfield.
For the Browns, the acquisition of Freeman comes at a pivotal time. After losing star running back Nick Chubb to injury early in the season, the team has been searching for a way to fill the void in their ground attack. While Jerome Ford has been elevated to the starting position, Freeman’s signing ensures that the Browns have another experienced back on hand, should the need arise. His physical running style and experience in different offensive schemes could make him an important piece of the puzzle as Cleveland looks to maintain a balanced offense and keep their playoff hopes alive.
Freeman’s signing adds another layer of competition to a crowded Browns backfield. In addition to Ford, the Browns have Pierre Strong Jr. on the roster, as well as Kareem Hunt, who recently rejoined the team. Freeman will need to prove his worth quickly to earn playing time, but his track record suggests he could be a valuable asset as Cleveland pushes deeper into the season.
This signing not only bolsters the Browns’ depth but also gives the team flexibility as they navigate the ups and downs of a long NFL campaign.
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