The Cleveland Browns signed Estime on Monday, a move aimed at shoring up a running game that struggled in a 17-12 loss to the New York Jets and has been hampered by injuries and inexperience.
Why Estime was brought in
The Browns’ ground attack was “virtually non-existent” in the loss to the Jets, prompting the team to add another option at running back, the team announced Monday. Estime brings two years of NFL experience to Cleveland’s backfield and arrives with the expectation that he can provide immediate depth and production.
Deshaun Watson currently ranks as the team’s second-leading rusher, trailing Quinshon Judkins by 54 yards, underscoring the unit’s reliance on quarterback scrambles rather than consistent rushing production.
Roster context: injuries and depth concerns
The Browns started the season 3-1 but have seen momentum stall as injuries piled up. Yahoo! News reported the team’s strong start and noted that injuries suffered in the Jets loss slowed that early-season surge.
Sports Illustrated described Cleveland’s running back room as “banged up and very inexperienced,” pointing to a recent injury to Judkins and noting that backup Dylan Sampson was placed on injured reserve after an opening-week knee injury. Sports Illustrated also characterized current options Raheim Sanders and Jaleel McLaughlin as uninspiring so far this season outside of a touchdown from McLaughlin against the Steelers.
Expectations, timelines and what comes next
Coaching staff uncertainty about Judkins’ status has left the Browns seeking short-term answers. Yahoo! News reported that coach Todd Monken is unsure if Judkins will be able to play in the upcoming game against the Baltimore Ravens, leaving added impetus for Estime to acclimate quickly.
Sports Illustrated projected that the Browns will need production from Estime if they hope to develop the run game, while also projecting that Judkins is not expected to miss an extended period but could be eased back into action given a significant injury last season. That same piece suggested Estime has time to get up to speed with Cleveland’s playbook ahead of the Ravens matchup.
With the Browns still carrying the momentum of a 3-1 opening and a pressing need for consistent rushing carries, Estime’s immediate contribution will be measured against short-term availability of Judkins and the output of Sanders and McLaughlin. For now, the signing is a clear attempt to add experience and depth as the Browns try to recalibrate a run game that has yet to find its footing.
