Now that NFL camps are here, fans can't wait to see what rookies across the country can get done. Over in Cleveland, the Browns are getting things started on Wednesday July 23 and there are going to be plenty of eyes on running back Dylan Sampson.
The former Tennessee football standout saw his draft stock fall a bit, leading to him being taken in the fourth round. Despite that, Sampson previously impressed this spring at minicamp and he's now ready to take things to the next level with Week 1 around the corner.
Now that Nick Chubb is no longer in Cleveland, the RB1 job is totally up for grabs. Could Sampson end up pushing early on to being the leading ball carrier for the Browns. That could end up being the case. Here's why...
Dylan Sampson is ready to push for the Cleveland Browns starting RB job
On paper, you might think that Jerome Ford would be the lead candidate to be the featured back, but he dealt with some injury issues last season and he's been a bit inconsistent during his three years with Cleveland.
The Browns also selected Ohio State RB Quinshon Judkins in the second round and he's got a boatload of talent. However, he's dealing with some off-the-field issues that could lead to a potential suspension - it's a bit unknown how things will go down there.
If Judkins potentially misses the start of the season, it would lead to both Ford and Sampson getting extensive action. Even if Sampson isn't the starter Week 1, he's still going to get a lot of work in. Who knows, with a strong fall camp, it could lead to Cleveland just making him the starter from the get go.
In 2024, the 5-8, 200-pounder had a historic campaign for Josh Heupel and the Vols, rushing for 1,491 yards and 22 touchdowns. There's no question that Sampson played a massive role in UT reaching the College Football Playoff for the first time ever. In '25, he'll be playing with a chip on his shoulder in the AFC North and no one should be surprised if he makes a big-time splash for the Browns early on.