Usa news

Ex-Browns Free Agency Bust Looking to Revive Career

Nearly two years removed from a freak offseason injury, former Cleveland Browns running back Nyheim Hines is looking for a fresh start and a new team.

Originally viewed as a low-risk, high-upside signing by the Browns in 2024, Hines never got the opportunity to showcase his versatile skillset in Cleveland. He did not appear in a game in a Browns uniform.

Over his five-year career, Hines has accumulated 2,980 yards from scrimmage and 18 total touchdowns. He’s returned two punts and two kickoffs for scores and has 235 receptions.

Hines, who has not played in an NFL game since 2022, believes he’s finally ready to return to action, per Adam Schefter of ESPN.

“Nearly two years to the date that he tore his ACL in a jet-ski accident, Nyheim Hines is looking for a chance to play in his first NFL game since 2022, when he returned two kicks for touchdowns in the same game for the Bills,” Schefter said. “Hines believes his knee finally is ready for a return to action and he is looking for a new training camp home.”


Nyheim Hines Valued for ‘Explosive’ Ability

Hines returned to practice with the Browns in October but was not activated to the 53-man roster within the 21-day window. Cleveland was looking forward to integrating him into their offense, which finished last in the league in points per game (15.2).

“He put in a lot of time and effort to try to get back. He did everything he could,” Browns special teams coordinator Bubba Ventrone said. “The number one thing for him is his speed and his explosive ability, and he just wasn’t at that spot where we felt comfortable to make the move. So disappointed for him. He would have been a great asset for us to have moving forward, but hopefully things work out in the future.”

Hines is primarily known for his kick return ability. But he did not like being dubbed a “return specialist,” citing his ability as a receiver out of the backfield.

“I mean, I’m not the biggest guy in the world, but I’m not going to be scared,” Hines said last year. “I’m known for my pass catching abilities, so the return specialist thing was kind of disrespectful, honestly, I don’t know. I don’t know any other return specialist who has over 230 catches in five years.”

With training camps approaching, most teams have established their depth charts. However, Hines may be able to catch on somewhere if an injury pops up.


Browns Ushering in New Era Without Nick Chubb

The Browns’ backfield will look very different from how it has in recent years. Cleveland added Quinshon Judkins and Dylan Sampson in the draft. The rookies are expected to play key roles during their first years.

They have big shoes to fill, with Cleveland icon Nick Chubb moving on this offseason. Chubb signed a one-year deal with the Houston Texans after seven seasons in Cleveland.

Judkins, who was selected with the No. 36 overall pick, is eager to form his legacy in Cleveland.

“When I come to be a Cleveland Brown, I’m coming in to change the organization, contribute, do the best I can. I know what it takes to win, so I’m going to bring that mentality here to Cleveland and do the same thing,” Judkins said.

The Browns kick off training camp on July 18 for the rookies. The veterans will join a few days later.

Like Heavy Sports’s content? Be sure to follow us.

This article was originally published on Heavy Sports

The post Ex-Browns Free Agency Bust Looking to Revive Career appeared first on Heavy Sports.

Exit mobile version