The Cleveland Browns witnessed the end of an era this offseason when Nick Chubb officially departed for Houston.
The running back, who arrived as the 35th overall pick in 2018 from Georgia, became more than just a player for the franchise.
He embodied the city’s identity through seven seasons of unwavering dedication and quiet leadership that resonated far beyond the field.
That bond has sparked conversations about his lasting impact on the organization and its fan base.
During a recent segment of the “Ultimate Cleveland Sports Show,” analyst Earl Mauldin made a bold declaration about Chubb’s legacy.
“Nick Chubb, to me, is the most beloved Cleveland Brown since 1999 and that’s saying, knowing that Joe Thomas is a staple in this city. Joe Thomas is a Hall of Famer, but at the end of the day, what he contributed on the football field and off the football field and how he made people feel, like to me, it’s second to none,” Mauldin said.
Is Nick Chubb the most beloved Cleveland #Browns player since 1999? @EarldaPearl216 thinks so #DawgPound | https://t.co/dq9FE4B6SX pic.twitter.com/ri4KiyG8bp
— Ultimate Cleveland Sports Show (@ultCLEsports) June 13, 2025
The comparison to Joe Thomas carries significant weight in Cleveland.
Thomas anchored the offensive line for over a decade and earned Hall of Fame recognition for his consistency and character.
Yet Douglas believes Chubb’s impact transcends even those accomplishments.
What sets Chubb apart, according to Douglas, was how he connected with the city itself rather than just the organization.
When Chubb addressed fans following his injury, he spoke directly to Cleveland’s people, not the team structure.
That gesture revealed the depth of his relationship with the community.
Chubb signed a one-year deal with Houston, officially closing his Browns chapter.
His departure marks the end of a remarkable seven-year run that saw him become the face of Cleveland’s resilience and determination.
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