The Cleveland Browns have officially signed second-round pick Quinshon Judkins to a four-year, $11.4 million deal, completing their 2025 draft class and fueling excitement as the explosive rookie running back is now set to boost the team’s offense and potentially shape Cleveland’s season hopes.

The Cleveland Browns closed a major chapter of their offseason preparations this week by officially signing second-round draft pick Quinshon Judkins to a four-year, $11.

4 million contract, a move that ensures every member of the team’s 2025 rookie class is now under contract.

The agreement, reached on Saturday in Berea, Ohio, marks the end of weeks of speculation over when Judkins would finalize his deal and provides the Browns with clarity as they move closer to the upcoming NFL season.

Judkins, the dynamic running back out of Ole Miss who declared for the draft after his sophomore year, has been touted as one of the most explosive offensive weapons in this year’s class.

Known for his combination of raw power and vision, he rushed for more than 1,000 yards in consecutive seasons with the Rebels, earning All-SEC honors and catching the eye of NFL scouts with his ability to break tackles and make game-changing plays in open space.

The Browns, who selected him early in the second round, had made no secret of their belief that Judkins could become a cornerstone piece of their backfield rotation in the years ahead.

The contract itself, valued at $11.4 million over four years with a signing bonus projected to be just over $4 million, aligns with the league’s rookie wage scale but also reflects the Browns’ confidence in Judkins’ potential impact.

“I’m just excited to be here and ready to get to work,” Judkins told reporters shortly after signing.

“This is the opportunity I’ve dreamed about since I was a kid, and I want to do everything I can to help this team win.

” His words were accompanied by a wide smile as he posed for photos holding up his new Browns jersey, signaling both relief and determination.

Head coach Kevin Stefanski praised the rookie’s work ethic during offseason workouts.

“Quinshon has shown us right away why we were so high on him,” Stefanski said.

“He’s a quick learner, he competes every rep, and he’s already earning the respect of veterans in that locker room.

We’re excited to see him in pads.”

The timing of the deal is significant for the franchise.

With training camp looming just weeks away, having every rookie secured under contract ensures the Browns can focus on on-field development without the distraction of unresolved negotiations.

For the front office, led by general manager Andrew Berry, this marks another smooth conclusion to draft signings, reflecting an organizational philosophy of efficiency and stability.

“It’s important to us that our young players feel supported from day one,” Berry commented.

“Quinshon’s signing was the last piece of the puzzle, and now we’re all in on preparing for the season.”

For Browns fans, Judkins represents more than just a promising addition to the roster.

After years of searching for consistency at running back behind star Nick Chubb, who is recovering from a major knee injury suffered last season, Judkins brings both insurance and intrigue.

Analysts have speculated that he could immediately slide into a significant role, sharing carries and potentially developing into the long-term answer at the position.

ESPN analysts noted that Judkins’ downhill running style could mesh perfectly with the Browns’ physical offensive line, while his ability to catch passes out of the backfield adds another layer to Cleveland’s offensive scheme.

Meanwhile, chatter around the league has only grown louder about the Browns’ quiet but determined approach to building a balanced roster.

With quarterback Deshaun Watson facing a pivotal season to prove he can regain his Pro Bowl form, having a dependable and versatile running game will be essential.

“Judkins could be that spark,” one AFC scout said anonymously.

“He’s the kind of player who can change momentum in a single play, and those guys are rare.”

In Cleveland, optimism is building.

Local fans have taken to social media to celebrate the signing, with one user writing, “Judkins is going to be a beast in brown and orange.

Berry nailed this draft.

” Another joked, “If Nick Chubb and Judkins are both healthy, defenses better pray. ”

As for Judkins himself, the rookie remains grounded despite the excitement.

“I know nothing is given at this level,” he said.

“I’ve got to earn every yard, every carry, every rep.

I respect the vets in that room, and I’m here to learn and compete.”

His mature outlook has impressed coaches and teammates alike, signaling that while the spotlight is new, his focus is firmly on football.

With his deal now complete, the Browns can enter training camp with one less distraction and one more reason to believe their 2025 campaign could be something special.

Whether Judkins will rise to meet the expectations placed on him remains to be seen, but in Cleveland, the anticipation is undeniable.

As the rookie put it simply, “The real work starts now.”