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 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.