Dylan Sampson's role with the Cleveland Browns may decline in the weeks ahead as Quinshon Judkins gets up to speed.
But first, Sampson outdid the rest of the rookie running back class.
The fourth-round pick out of Tennessee was the lowest-drafted RB to earn a Week 1 start.
You can see that and so much more in this cool graphic from Anthony Reinhard:
Week 1 roles for 2025 draft picks pic.twitter.com/6gVysu2M2N
— Anthony Reinhard (@reinhardNFL) September 10, 2025
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The Browns took Sampson in the fourth round, 126th overall, in April's NFL Draft. He's still just 20 years old and will turn 21 on Sunday.
He was the Offensive Player of the Year in his final season with the Volunteers.
He got the start in Week 1 over returning RB Jerome Ford and played a lot more, too.
Sampson finished with 20 touches in his debut, a one-point loss to the Bengals.
His rushing was inefficient, at 12 carries for 29 yards.
But Sampson made a big impact through the air, catching all eight of his targets and picking up 64 receiving yards.
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There's no telling exactly how Judkins' return will impact things. The second-round rookie from Ohio State practiced for the first time since minicamp on Thursday.
But Sampson has already proven he belongs with a strong debut, and the Browns likely will continue to keep him involved, especially in the passing game.
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