COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — Former Buckeye running back Quinshon Judkins created a legacy in Columbus. In his lone season at Ohio State, Judkins helped carry the Buckeyes to a national championship by rushing for 1,060 yards and scoring 16 touchdowns. Now, Judkins is headed two hours on I-71 North to create his own legacy in Cleveland.
“I think when I got here yesterday, and I walked in (to the locker room), and I saw my last name on the top locker. I’m like, man, it’s really here. It’s surreal,” said Judkins.
Judkins joins six other former Buckeyes on the Cleveland Browns roster. He took to the practice field for the first time in the Browns Rookie Minicamp over the weekend.
“Coach Duce (Staley) just wants me to go out there and execute,” said Judkins. “Go out there and be the guy they drafted to play.”
With the Browns drafting Judkins and Tennessee running back Dylan Sampson, speculation is growing that fan favorite Nick Chubb’s tenure in Cleveland may be nearing its end. Judkins acknowledged the challenge ahead and is ready to carry the load, saying, “I think Chubb is a great running back. He’s done a lot of great things here. Excited to come in and do what I can. And me and Dylan (Sampson) both contributing to the team and start my own legacy, and I think the coaches will put me in a great position to do that.”
Judkins is already feeling at home in Northeast Ohio, quickly bonding with fellow rookies, including former Oregon quarterback Dillon Gabriel. The two faced off twice last season, splitting the series, with Ohio State defeating Oregon in the College Football Playoffs. Judkins said, “Me and him, we just joke around. Mason (Graham), we do the same thing. For us to all be on the same team and become teammates is pretty cool.”
Coming from a pro-style offense at Ohio State, Judkins noted that the biggest adjustment so far is learning the Browns’ terminology. He is eager to compete and showcase his versatility as a new asset in the Browns’ offensive backfield. Judkins will also sport the No. 10 this season.
The NFL announced the Browns will host the Vikings in London in Week 5 this season. The game will be televised on the NFL Network on Sunday, Oct. 5 at 9:30 a.m.
