NFL Trade Rumors: Insider Links Patriots To Browns Running Back

When you watch the Patriots play the Browns on Sunday, take a good look at Jerome Ford, because he could be New England’s next backup running back.

Recent reports indicate the Patriots aren’t pursuing running back help ahead of the Nov. 4 trade deadline despite Antonio Gibson being out for the season due to a torn ACL. But an upgrade still would make sense, given Rhamondre Stevenson’s fumbling woes, TreVeyon Henderson’s rookie struggles and Terrell Jennings’ inexperience.

And Ford, buried on Cleveland’s depth chart behind standout rookie Quinshon Judkins, could be an option. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler recently identified the fourth-year pro as a potential trade candidate and listed the Patriots, Los Angeles Chargers and Houston Texans as possible suitors.

“The youth movement is ongoing in Cleveland, where Quinshon Judkins is featured in the backfield,” Fowler wrote in a piece published Wednesday. “The Browns are open to dealing Ford, who has 1,463 career rushing yards and 12 scrimmage touchdowns. The tailback market hasn’t intensified, though. Teams with needs at the position haven’t been overly active — at least not yet.”

A fifth-round pick in 2022, Ford barely played as a rookie but posted 813 and 565 rushing yards in 2023 and 2024, respectively. He also racked up 81 catches for 544 receiving yards over the two campaigns.

However, Ford rushed just 21 times for 73 yards over the Browns’ first seven games this season, as Judkins took over as the top back in Week 2 and hasn’t looked back. Ford has remained active in the passing game, though, catching 20 passes for 70 yards.

The Patriots and Browns will kick off from Gillette Stadium at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday.