HOUSTON – In an emotional message Nick Chubb penned to Cleveland Browns fans, the four-time Pro Bowl running back expressed his gratitude for their support during good times and bad times.
Chubb signed a one-year, $5 million maximum value contract with the Texans. He finished his successful run with the Browns as the third-ranked all-time rushing leader behind Jim Brown and Leroy Kelly.
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Chubb reflected on his seven years in Cleveland on social media with a lengthy post about the appreciation he felt and feels to this day even after leaving the Browns.
“That’s more than just time, it’s where I grew roots, found a home, and felt a love like nowhere else,” Chubb wrote on Instagram. “Cleveland, you didn’t just embrace me; you became family. To every fan who cheered, shouted, and believed- you gave me purpose. To this city, with its grit, heart, and unforgettable spirit: you showed me what true community feels like. To my teammates, only we know how hard we fought every day and night. Relentless effort; scratching and clawing, doing all we could to win games, not only for us, but for the city. You guys kept me going everyday and i will never forget my time with you in the building and on the field. I came here to play football, but I’m leaving with so much more- memories that’ll last a lifetime, friendships that changed me, and pride in calling this place home.
“This city deserves a winning season every year. It’s earned it. This city doesn’t quit. The people never stop believing. And my Brothers in that locker room, will never stop fighting. Cleveland’s time is now… and not because they are owed anything, but because RESILIENCE ALWAYS WINS. Just like we preached everyday in meetings. This isn’t goodbye to what we built; it’s a thank you. For the trust, the passion, and the moments that made me feel like I belonged here from day one. Cleveland, you’ll always have a piece of my heart. Until we meet again."
After a rough past two seasons with injuries, Chubb has regained his health and is relaunching his career with the defending AFC South champions. Chubb endured a torn medial collateral ligament and damaged anterior cruciate ligament two seasons ago. Last year, his comeback season was cut short by a broken foot.
Now, Chubb is determined to put those health issues behind him and be a vital part of a formidable tandem with Pro Bowl running back Joe Mixon.
“I would say that’s all behind me and, you know, injuries happen,” Chubb said as the Texans wrapped up a full-team minicamp. “And with what I did, it takes about two years to really get back. And, so, I’m over the hump. I’m back home.
“I was back home all offseason training where I trained every year since I was in high school. I was able to get a full year in of doing the things that I do best. And so now I’m feeling good as I have been in a long time.”
The true litmus test for Chubb, the Cleveland Browns’ third all-time leading rusher behind Hall of Fame runners Jim Brown and Leroy Kelly, will come in a game situation.
For now, Chubb is looking recovered, rejuvenated and extremely fit. The former University of Georgia star football player and high school track standout even regained his old stopwatch speed and weightlifting standards that includes squatting over 500 pounds.
“Nick Chubb, that’s a legend,” All-Pro corner Derek Stingley Jr. said. “I think it’s pretty cool.”
The presence of Chubb follows a quick courtship. Chubb’s agent, Todd France of Athletes First, got the call Saturday. By Sunday, Chubb was on a commercial flight from Atlanta to Houston. By Monday morning, he was on a visit at NRG Stadium and took a physical. His incentive-laden contract was finalized Monday afternoon.
“It happened really fast,” Chubb said. “I’m happy to be here.”
The Texans are feeling great about his arrival.
“We’re excited to add Nick Chubb to our team,” Texans coach DeMeco Ryans said. “He’s just a tremendous worker. Humble kid, doesn’t say much, but he’s a grinder, a worker. The one thing that sticks out about him, he’s been through a lot with the injuries and things that’s happened to him. So, just to see the resilience, to see him battle back, work in the right way to put himself in position to have another opportunity here in Houston, I couldn’t be more excited to add him to our team and see what value he can provide to us.
“We all know the caliber of player that Nick can be when he’s healthy and when he’s at the top of his game. He’s a dynamic player. He’s a game-changer. So, we’re just easing him in. We’ll see how far he gets. We’ll come back for training camp ready to go.”
Chubb also drew interest from the New Orleans Saints. Chubb, though, wanted to be a part of a playoff contender. The Texans have won the past two AFC South division titles under Ryans’ direction.
“He’s a young coach, a lot of energy, a lot of intensity,” Chubb said. “He’s young, fresh. He wants to win. I was questioning why they wanted me. And then I came here, and I saw a bunch of guys who like to work and not talk. And I realized I’m a perfect fit. So, I realized why they wanted me here.”
The handshakes. The fun. The running style.
It all resonates with Stroud.
“He’s a great player,” Stroud said. “I met him today for the first time and I told him, man, I’ve been respecting his game since he was in college. I think he’s a great back, and I think he’ll do some great things for us. I’m excited to have him as a teammate.
“I actually didn’t recognize him when I walked in. He’s very quiet, so I was like, ‘dang, what’s up, Nick?’ I kind of got nervous because he’s been a baller since I’ve been a kid. So, I’m very excited to have him.”
Aaron Wilson is a Texans and NFL reporter for KPRC 2 and click2houston.com