In a surprising offseason move, the Cleveland Browns have terminated the contract of running back Nyheim Hines. The speedy back, who was signed to a one-year deal last offseason, never got a chance to suit up for the Browns after suffering a devastating ACL tear in a jet ski accident back in July 2023.
A Lost Season and an Uncertain Future
Hines, who spent his first four seasons with the Indianapolis Colts before a midseason trade sent him to the Buffalo Bills in 2022, had hoped to revitalize his career in Cleveland. However, a freak offseason accident put those plans on hold indefinitely.
After beginning the 2023 season on the non-football injury list, the Browns designated Hines to return to practice in October. But despite making progress in his rehab, the team ultimately decided not to activate him to the 53-man roster when his 21-day practice window closed.
A Versatile Weapon Sidelined
When healthy, Hines has proven to be a dynamic playmaker both as a runner and receiver out of the backfield. In his six NFL seasons, he’s racked up nearly 3,000 scrimmage yards and found the end zone 18 times.
But it’s Hines’ ability in the return game that truly sets him apart. He’s taken two punts and two kickoffs to the house in his career, showcasing the game-breaking speed that made him such an enticing free agent signing for the Browns.
Nyheim is an electric player who can impact the game in so many ways. It’s a tough break, but we know he’ll attack his rehab with everything he’s got.
– Browns GM Andrew Berry at the time of Hines’ injury
What’s Next for Hines and the Browns?
Now 28 years old and coming off back-to-back missed seasons, Hines faces an uphill battle to find his footing in the NFL again. Teams will no doubt be wary of his injury history, but his unique skill set should earn him another opportunity if he can prove he’s healthy.
As for the Browns, they’ll move forward with the running back duo of Nick Chubb and Jerome Ford. While lacking the receiving and return abilities of Hines, the pair form a formidable 1-2 punch in Kevin Stefanski’s offense.
Still, don’t be surprised if Cleveland looks to add some backfield depth and special teams help as the offseason progresses. Replacing a talent like Hines won’t be easy, but for a team with playoff aspirations, it’s a hole they can’t afford to leave unfilled for long.
A Fresh Start Awaits
For Nyheim Hines, the road back to NFL relevance begins anew. After two seasons lost to a devastating injury, he’ll have to prove himself all over again. But if his prior production is any indication, this versatile playmaker still has plenty of highlights left in him.
The Browns, meanwhile, will begin the post-Hines era in their backfield. As an expected contender in the rugged AFC North, they can’t afford to lose a step in the run game or on special teams. Expect a move to bolster those units sooner than later.
The NFL waits for no one, and time will tell what the future holds for both Hines and the team that cut him loose. But if there’s one certainty in this league, it’s to expect the unexpected – especially when electric playmakers and championship aspirations are involved.
