Chubb managed just 332 rushing yards and three touchdowns in 2024 after returning from a torn ACL, and he enters free agency looking for a prove-it opportunity. While his explosiveness may never fully return, his reputation as a hard-nosed runner and locker-room leader still makes him an attractive target.
Browns, Steelers, and Raiders Among Top Fits for Chubb
A return to the Cleveland Browns remains a real possibility. Chubb is a franchise icon, and with Jerome Ford slated as the starter, Cleveland could use veteran insurance.
As Pro Football Network noted, “keeping Chubb around would provide a locker-room boost” even if he’s not the feature back. The Pittsburgh Steelers could also be a fit, with Najee Harris gone and a need for a bruising short-yardage runner in Arthur Smith’s new offense.
Meanwhile, the Las Vegas Raiders, now led by Pete Carroll, may view Chubb as a perfect veteran complement to a young backfield, providing leadership and physicality in a division known for tough defenses. However, now that the franchise just drafted a potentially generational talent in RB Ashton Jeanty, that may no longer be the case. Still, he could be a great mentoring presence for Jeanty for a year or two.
The Browns and Nick Chubb have had dialogue on a return, per @RapSheet.
— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) April 25, 2025
Thoughts? pic.twitter.com/I0dQAGL6N5
While Chubb likely won’t command a major contract, his experience and toughness could be valuable for a contender looking to bolster its backfield depth.
Whether it’s a return to Cleveland, a rivalry shocker in Pittsburgh, or a fresh start in Las Vegas, Chubb should have options as he looks to extend his career in 2025.
Photo Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
