Browns RB Nick Chubb returns Sunday; Jerome Ford ruled out

BEREA, Ohio (AP) — The Cleveland Browns have ruled out leading rusher Jerome Ford because of a hamstring injury, but running back Nick Chubb will make his season debut Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals.

Chubb, who has practiced for the past three weeks as he returns from a serious left knee injury in September 2023, is listed as questionable, but coach Kevin Stefanski said he expects him to play.

The four-time Pro Bowler underwent two knee surgeries after suffering the injury on Monday Night Football against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Stefanski said the team has a “plan” for its workload. Offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey said Thursday they want to “make sure he’s available long-term.”

Chubb said Wednesday that his knee feels good ahead of his first game in over a year.

“I’m ready to go out there with my team and do whatever I can,” Chubb said. “I feel good.”

Stefanski also said running back/return specialist Nyheim Hines, who like Chubb is on his way back from a knee injury that forced him to start the season on the non-football injured list, is unlikely to play.

The Browns also ruled out safety Ronnie Hickman. Cleveland listed linebacker Jordan Hicks, center Ethan Pocic and safety Juan Thornhill as questionable.