Nick Chubb doesn't expect scoring production to be 'hindered' by QB Deshaun Watson

Everything about QB Deshaun Watson’s transition in Cleveland was clunky at more than one point. That was as obvious one the field as it was off, especially when you look at the impact that it had on his Pro Bowl running back in Nick Chubb.

With that said, Chubb said there was no negative influence on his game from Watson’s return to the lineup in an interview with The Akron Beacon Journal. He said that there are obviously things that they need to ironed out. Overall, though, he has no worries as he knows what he can do once he totes the rock.

“You can’t really look at the numbers. Twelve (touchdowns) is the most I’ve ever had since I’ve been here,” Chubb explained. “I don’t think it had much to do with it. I think we did have to figure some things out, get the kinks out on offense. And I don’t think I’m hindered by Deshaun at all.”

“No, I’m not worried at all. I can’t control what I can’t control,” said Chubb. “When the ball is in my hand, I have full control. So I’m not worried about anything.”

In 2022, Chubb posted his best season as a member of the Cleveland Browns. Overall, he posted career-highs in rush attempts (302), rushing Yards (1,525), touches (329), scrimmage yards (1,764), and total touchdowns (13). He also tied his career-high for rushing touchdowns as 12 of his 13 scores came on the ground.

At the end of the season, Chubb made his fourth straight Pro Bowl. However, NFL voters also rewarded him as he earned his first All-Pro selection as a member of the Second Team.

Still, it’s hard not to ignore how those numbers fell off upon Watson’s return in Week 13. Of his 1,500+ rushing yards, only 486 came in the final six weeks. In the stretch, he averaged less yards per carry from 5.2 down to 4.9 and averaged 81 rushing yards per game compared to his season average of almost 90 per outing. Finally, perhaps most telling, Chubb didn’t rush for another touchdown over the final six weeks after scoring 12 in the first 11.

The kind of wall that Chubb hit is hard to ignore, especially once you factor in Watson’s presence. That’s why all eyes will be on them in the backfield to see if they can work out the kinks that they experienced together at the end of last season.