According to multiple reports, Sampson is expected to miss significant time due to the knee injury. He was initially listed as questionable, then ruled out for the remainder of the game. He did return two kickoffs for 64 yards, including a 37-yard return to start the afternoon, but did not record an offensive touch. The sight of him on crutches after the game raised immediate concerns about the severity, and Browns coach Todd Monken said on Monday that the team was still evaluating the injury with more information anticipated by Wednesday. While an exact recovery timeline wasn’t provided, Sampson is a strong candidate for the injured reserve list, which would sideline him for at least four games.
Losing Sampson compounds an offense that has already been seeking answers. He was one of the Browns’ more versatile backfield options, offering quickness and strong receiving ability that allowed Cleveland to attack defenses in space. His role served as a valuable change of pace behind Quinshon Judkins.
In the wake of Sampson’s injury, Judkins and Raheim Sanders bring different attributes to the backfield. Judkins is the primary early-down runner, while Sanders adds size and a more physical running style. Both can contribute as receivers, but replacing Sampson’s unique skill set will require more than simply splitting his carries. Cleveland will need to rework its approach to complement the remaining options and maximize opportunities in both the rushing and receiving games.
Notably, Jaleel McLaughlin provides an experienced replacement option already within the organization. The Browns signed McLaughlin to their practice squad on September 1, adding a smaller, quicker back to pair with Judkins and Sanders. McLaughlin, a 5-foot-7, 187-pound back, entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent out of Youngstown State in 2023 and spent three seasons with Denver. In 41 games, he accumulated 1,093 rushing yards on 226 carries (4.8 yards per attempt) and added 59 receptions for 263 yards and four TDs. His most active rushing season was 2024, when he totaled 496 yards on 113 carries. He appeared in eight games last season, registering 187 rushing yards and a TD on 37 carries.
McLaughlin’s experience makes him a logical candidate to help cover Sampson’s absence. The Browns could elevate him from the practice squad or add him to the active roster if the injury proves longer-term. There is also the option of pursuing a trade for additional help, though no concrete pursuit has been reported. With Tampa Bay upcoming on the schedule, McLaughlin offers an immediate option as Cleveland evaluates how long Sampson will be sidelined and how to best configure the backfield for ongoing challenges.
Meanwhile, the Browns will look to maximize the remaining playmakers in the backfield and continue to refine the offense to fit the available personnel. The loss of Sampson underscores the need for versatility and depth at the position, as Cleveland seeks to balance efficiency in the running game with the passing attack while navigating unexpected injuries early in the season. As players step into larger roles, the team will monitor progress and adjust game plans accordingly to keep the offense productive in the weeks ahead.
