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Browns Lose No. 2 RB Dylan Sampson Early in Opener, Forcing Judkins to Shoulder Load

Sampson’s in-game knee exit removes Cleveland’s change-of-pace runner and kickoff returner and creates immediate rotation and special-teams questions for the offense.

Overview

  • Dylan Sampson left the game with a knee injury and was initially listed questionable to return before a broadcast reported he would not play again in the opener.
  • Cleveland’s first drive ended when Deshaun Watson threw an interception that Jacksonville converted into a touchdown, and the Jaguars built a quick 14-0 lead.
  • Coaches signaled Quinshon Judkins will take an expanded role as the primary three-down back with running backs coach Duce Staley saying he can handle that workload.
  • Raheim Sanders is the next tailback in line for carries and special-teams duties while practice-squad back Jaleel McLaughlin was not elevated for the game.
  • The team has not provided details on Sampson’s longer-term availability and his loss affects both the Browns’ backfield rotation and kickoff-return plans as they try to establish Todd Monken’s offense.