The Cleveland Browns are hoping to retain Nick Chubb for the 2025 season and beyond, but they may have unexpected competition for his services.
Following their failure to draft Ashton Jeanty, the Chicago Bears have reportedly turned their attention to Chubb—and ESPN analyst and former NFL executive Louis Riddick is advocating strongly for the move. Speaking on NFL Live, Riddick emphasized how adding a powerful runner like Chubb could help protect rookie quarterback Caleb Williams.
“You want to keep Caleb safe? Run the ball and set up play-action,” Riddick said. “Give him a legitimate rushing threat. The Bears have bolstered the interior of their offensive line, and Chubb should be eager to run behind it. He should be knocking on their door saying, ‘I want to be part of this.’ Caleb should be saying, ‘Come on over.’”
Riddick also noted that Chubb’s presence would take pressure off the passing game. With Chicago’s new receiving weapons drawing defensive attention, Chubb would likely face fewer stacked boxes, boosting his effectiveness.
Meanwhile, Cleveland’s backfield is becoming crowded. Jerome Ford accepted a pay cut to solidify his spot for the 2025 season, signaling early optimism for Chubb’s return. However, the Browns complicated things during the draft by selecting two more running backs—Quinshon Judkins in the second round and Dylan Sampson in the fourth.
With Ford still on the team and two fresh rookies in the mix, Chubb’s role in Cleveland is far from guaranteed.