The Cleveland Browns were a strong running team in 2021 and have been since head coach Kevin Stefanski took over the team. The Browns were a top ten in the number of times running the ball versus passing. With a great offensive line and a stable of running backs that any team would be jealous of, it made a lot of sense.
By the end of the season, Cleveland’s rushing attack was the fourth best in the NFL, less than a half a yard behind the Baltimore Ravens yards per game average for tops in the AFC North.
Having Nick Chubb signed to an extension and Kareem Hunt as his key backup, the Browns had depth and needed it. Both Chubb and Hunt missed some games which gave D’Ernest Johnson a chance to shine as well.
In 2021, all three of Cleveland’s running backs were among the top ten in explosive play percentage for their position with Chubb taking the top spot:
How often did a running back create a big play (10+ rush or 20+ yard reception) in 2021? pic.twitter.com/HEXSjaZqre
— Marcus Mosher (@Marcus_Mosher) May 18, 2022
Hunt and Johnson barely met the 100 touch minimum threshold but their presence shines a light on the team’s offensive line, play calling and their explosiveness. While Jonathan Taylor had more big plays than Chubb, he also had more than 100 more chances to do so.
With Deshaun Watson and Amari Cooper in the fold, Cleveland could have a more balanced run-to-pass ratio in 2022. They hope to continue to be explosive no matter which part of the offense is being featured.