Browns news: Nick Chubb has legitimate shot to win starting job

The Cleveland Browns have made some drastic changes over the course of the NFL offseason, especially on offense. Rookie running back Nick Chubb is making a serious to be a starter right out of the gate in 2018.

Most of the headlines surrounding the Cleveland Browns have been focused on their one-sided quarterback duel. However, perhaps the most intriguing position battle comes in the backfield.

Cleveland fortified the group this offseason with the additions of running backs Carlos Hyde and Nick Chubb. It appears Chubb has given Hyde and running back Duke Johnson Jr. a run for their money thus far, via ESPN's NFL Nation:

It's early in the process, but Chubb has a chance to be the Browns' starting running back. Chubb's between-the-tackles ability and his work ethic will earn him a long look in training camp and preseason. It would not be surprising to see Chubb get the bulk of the every-down carries, especially early in games. The competition will be intriguing. The Browns did sign Carlos Hyde to go with Duke Johnson, in addition to drafting Chubb. But Hyde's tough running would be valuable in short-yardage, red zone and fourth-quarter situations — assuming the Browns have games when they are protecting a late lead. Johnson's role won't change; he'll be the change-of-pace back, the weapon out of the backfield.

It is encouraging to see that the rookie has already made quite the impression on his coaches. Chubb was one of the best running backs in college football last season. Despite the signing of Hyde, Cleveland still went ahead and selected him in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft. It seems the Browns have already started to see some return on their investment.

However, Hyde established himself as a capable workhorse back during his tenure with the San Francisco 49ers. He is coming off back-to-back campaigns where he fell just short of a 1,00 yards rushing. It is likely that Cleveland brought him in to help stabilize the backfield amidst the departure of Isaiah Crowell. Meanwhile, running back Duke Johnson Jr. has done a solid job of etching out his role in the passing game over the last few years. He is one of only two running backs to haul in more than 50 receptions for three straight seasons.

That said, it will ultimately come down between Hyde and Chubb on who receives the bulk of the carries. It will be interesting to see if the rookie can carry over his momentum into training camp.