Browns’ Hidden Gem Ready to Shine: This Cleveland Player Could Be the Key to Unlocking a Championship Season
Despite the miserable 2024 season, the Cleveland Browns may have found a key contributor in the team’s offense with running back Jerome Ford.
The former fifth-round pick the 2022 NFL Draft has been underwhelming since entering the league. He saw limited time during the first season, but eventually expanded his role in his second year due to Nick Chubb’s season-ending injury. While he split time with former Browns’ running back Kareem Hunt, Ford finished the 2023 season 813 rushing yards and four touchdowns on 204 carries.
So how can Ford become a key weapon in 2025?
Part of the reason why the former Cincinnati Bearcat found success this year was due to the Browns using multiple running backs this year, such as Nick Chubb. Ford offers a perfect change of pace from the other Cleveland running backs, while also being a dynamic pass catcher.
With Chubb’s future up in the air, Cleveland must capitalize on the rich running back class in the 2025 NFL Draft. One intriguing name that is projected to be a Day 2-3 pick is Kansas’ Devin Neal, who racked up 1,266 yards and 16 touchdowns in 2024.
In order for Browns’ general manager Andrew Berry to properly set up the run game for the future, he must invest in a young running back this year to pair with Ford.
