Cleveland Browns Rookie Quinshon Judkins Arrested on Domestic Violence Charge in Florida
Cleveland Browns rookie RB Quinshon Judkins was arrested in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on a battery and domestic violence charge. Discover the details of the incident, his unsigned contract status, and potential NFL implications.
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – A significant off-field incident has cast a shadow over the Cleveland Browns' preparations for the upcoming season, as rookie running back Quinshon Judkins was arrested on Saturday, July 12, 2025, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The highly-touted second-round draft pick faces a charge of battery and domestic violence.
Details of the Arrest and Charges
According to records from the Broward County Sheriff's Office, Judkins, 21, was taken into custody and charged with "touch or strike/battery/domestic violence," which is classified as a misdemeanor. Fort Lauderdale Police responded to a "delayed battery" call around 9 a.m. on Saturday. After an initial investigation, officers determined that a battery had occurred, leading to Judkins' arrest. He was subsequently transported to the Broward County Main Jail and was awaiting his initial court appearance as of Sunday. Further specifics of the incident have not been publicly disclosed by authorities.
Team and League Response
The Cleveland Browns swiftly issued a statement in response to the news. A team spokesperson confirmed they are "aware of the matter and gathering more information," but declined to provide additional comment at this early stage. The NFL has also stated it is "aware of the matter," but has not commented further, indicating that the league will monitor the ongoing legal process.
Unsigned Status and Future Implications
The arrest is particularly impactful given Judkins' current contractual situation. He is the only member of the Browns' 2025 seven-player draft class who has not yet signed his rookie contract. Despite being unsigned, Judkins remains subject to the NFL's Personal Conduct Policy. This policy allows for potential discipline, including fines, suspensions, or placement on the Commissioner's Exempt List, even before a player officially signs a contract.
The timing of the incident is also critical, as Browns rookies are scheduled to report for training camp on Friday, July 18. Judkins' arrest will undoubtedly complicate his ability to join the team on schedule, potentially impacting his preparation and role for the upcoming season.
Expected Role and Collegiate Background
Quinshon Judkins was expected to contend for a prominent role in the Browns' backfield, especially following the departure of veteran running back Nick Chubb to the Houston Texans. His strong collegiate career at both Ole Miss and Ohio State saw him emerge as one of the most productive backs in college football, accumulating 3,785 rushing yards and 45 touchdowns over three seasons. He was a key contributor to Ohio State's national championship run last season, rushing for 1,060 yards and 14 touchdowns in his lone year with the Buckeyes.
This marks the second consecutive offseason in which a Cleveland Browns rookie has faced domestic violence charges, following defensive tackle Mike Hall Jr.'s arrest last year. The situation adds an unwanted layer of scrutiny for the franchise as they prepare for the 2025 NFL season.
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