In a dramatic turn of events at Huntington Bank Field, Cleveland Browns rookie running back Quinshon Judkins suffered a right-leg injury that forced him off the field and left the game in a state of uncertainty.
Game Overview
The Browns faced the Buffalo Bills on Sunday, December 21, 2025, in Cleveland, Ohio. The matchup drew attention not only for the teams involved but also for the performance of the Browns’ rookie back, who had been one of the league’s most promising newcomers. Judkins entered the game with a record that had already set him apart: 784 rushing yards and seven rushing touchdowns, the leading numbers among all NFL rookies.
The Play That Changed the Game
Late in the second quarter, Judkins caught a swing pass from quarterback Shedeur Sanders on a second-and-six situation at the Browns’ 44-yard line. He was immediately met by Bills linebacker Matt Milano, who tackled him low at the 38-yard line for a six-yard loss. The impact left Judkins visibly distressed; he was pounding his hands on his helmet and appeared to be in discomfort.
The Injury
Soon after the tackle, Judkins began to struggle with his right leg. The injury was severe enough that the team’s medical staff had to cart him off the field. The Browns’ staff confirmed that the injury was a right-leg injury that would sideline him for an extended period. The exact nature of the injury was not disclosed at the time, but the fact that he was removed from the game underscored its seriousness.
The Fumble and Replay Review
In the chaos that followed the tackle, officials initially ruled that Judkins had fumbled the ball. Buffalo linebacker Terrel Bernard recovered the loose ball and returned it for a touchdown. However, the play was immediately reviewed on replay. The video evidence showed that Judkins was down by contact before the ball became loose, leading to a reversal of the call. The touchdown was nullified, and the ball was returned to the Browns for a first-down at the 44-yard line.
Judkins’ Performance Before the Injury
Prior to the injury, Judkins had eight carries for 22 yards. Those numbers were part of a larger body of work that had seen him lead all NFL rookies in rushing yards and tie for first in rushing touchdowns. His performance had made him a key part of the Browns’ offensive strategy, and the sudden halt to his game was a significant blow to the team’s plans.
The Context of the Game
Shedeur Sanders, who threw the swing pass that led to the tackle, entered the second quarter for a single play. He was visibly nursing a bloody pinker finger on his right throwing hand, a detail that highlighted the physical toll the game was taking on both sides. The game itself was a showcase of the competitive nature of the NFL, with both teams vying for a spot in the postseason.
Reactions from the Team
While the article does not report direct quotes from team officials or players, the rapid response from the Browns’ medical staff and the immediate replay review demonstrate the seriousness with which the incident was treated. The team’s decision to remove Judkins from the game reflected the priority placed on player safety.
Impact on the Browns’ Season
The loss of a rookie who had already proven himself as a top performer among his peers could have implications for the Browns’ offensive strategy moving forward. With Judkins sidelined, the team will need to adjust its rushing game to maintain competitiveness against a tough Bills defense.
Key Takeaways
- Quinshon Judkins, the Browns’ second-round pick from Ohio State, suffered a right-leg injury that forced him off the field.
- He led NFL rookies with 784 rushing yards and was tied for first with seven rushing touchdowns before the injury.
- The play that led to the injury involved a swing pass from Shedeur Sanders and a tackle by Bills linebacker Matt Milano.
- A fumble was initially called, but replay reversed the call, ruling Judkins down by contact.
- The injury and play highlight the physical demands of the NFL and the importance of safety protocols.
The game ended with the Browns facing the challenge of adapting to the sudden absence of one of their most promising young talents. As the season continues, the impact of Judkins’ injury will be felt across the team’s offensive strategy and overall performance.
