Cleveland Browns rookie running back Quinshon Judkins was arrested on July 12, 2025, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, facing a misdemeanor domestic battery charge described as “touch or strike/battery/domestic violence,” per Broward County records.
Officers responded to a residential address around 9 a.m. ET and determined a delayed-report battery situation occurred. Judkins was taken into custody without posting immediate bond and faced an initial court appearance scheduled for Sunday morning.
🏈 Drafted, But Still Unsigned
Selected 36th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft after a standout college career at Ohio State, Judkins has not yet signed his rookie contract, a status shared with around 30 other second-round picks.
Discussions have stalled largely over guaranteed money in his four-year deal, although his projected compensation aligns with standard second-round rookie contracts.
📄 Contract Details & Financial Outlook
According to On3 and Pro Football Network, Judkins’ contract is expected to be a four-year deal worth $11.39 to $11.4 million, averaging about $2.85 million per season, with a first-year salary around $840,000.
Notably, unlike many high picks, his contract reportedly contains no fully guaranteed money, making the domestic violence charge a potential contractual termination trigger.
Ongoing negotiations over guarantees underscore how even second-round picks must fight for financial security before joining the playing field.
💸 NIL Earnings and Lifestyle
Before entering the NFL, Judkins capitalized on his star power at Ole Miss and Ohio State:
- He secured NIL deals with EA Sports, Raising Cane’s, JLab, and Kane Footwear.
- Analysts suggest his net worth, combining his NFL deal and NIL earnings, places him among the more financially secure rookies of the 2025 draft class.
Lifestyle-wise, his college success and newfound wealth likely allowed for early investments—from luxury vehicles to personal branding expenses—though detailed records are unavailable.
🏠 Browns Role & Expectations
The Browns drafted Judkins to replace Nick Chubb, who left for a one-year, $2.5 million deal with the Texans.
Assistant GM Catherine Hickman praised Judkins as a physical, three-down back reminiscent of Chubb, strong enough to take on the team’s lead running back role.
His arrest comes just days before rookie camp, which begins July 18—potentially sidelining him from team activities and jeopardizing his position on the depth chart.
🏛 Legal and NFL Ramifications
Legally, Judkins faces up to one year in jail, probation, and a maximum $1,000 fine under Florida’s first-degree misdemeanor statutes.
From a league standpoint, the NFL is aware of the charges and will evaluate under the Personal Conduct Policy, which could bring independent discipline regardless of legal outcomes.
Given his unsigned status, the Browns also have the contractual right to void his deal, offering them leverage beyond league discipline.
🔍 Team Response
The Browns issued a measured statement, acknowledging the situation and stating they are “gathering additional information”
No further comment has been provided. The team’s PR and legal teams will play a key role as the situation unfolds—especially given its timing ahead of camp and preseason preparations.
🧠 Distinct Athlete Analysis
1. Financial Vulnerability & Contract Structure
Judkins’ lack of guaranteed money means his entire NFL career—and the $11.4 million contract—could collapse based on legal outcomes.
2. NIL & Brand Investments
His early NIL earnings suggest he was building a personal brand. A domestic violence arrest threatens sponsorship deals that often evaporate in response to legal issues.
3. Team Culture & Perception
Cleveland invested draft capital built around integrity. A sudden off-field scandal clashes with the team’s public image and leadership goals.
4. On-Field Opportunity at Risk
Touted as Chubb’s successor, Judkins may now lose prime reps to Jerome Ford or another back depending on resolution and team stance.
🔗 Related Reads on Distinct Athlete
➡️ KaVontae Turpin Arrest: How Legal Trouble Raises Financial Stakes
➡️ Dwight Howard Divorce: Examining NBA Wealth in Crisis
➡️ NFL Rookie Contracts and Guarantee Trends
💬 Join the Conversation
What do you think the Browns should do? Should Judkins be suspended, released, or supported through the process? Share your thoughts with #JudkinsCase and join us on @DistinctAthlete across social platforms.
