Should I Start Dylan Sampson?

Friday, June 5, 8:30 AM

Across 15 games as a rookie in 2025, Cleveland Browns running back Dylan Sampson recorded 446 yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns on 98 touches. While fellow Browns rookie Quinshon Judkins (ankle) emerged as the team's clear lead rusher, Sampson established himself as a pass-catcher out of the backfield by hauling in 33 receptions for 271 yards and two scores on 40 targets. Cleveland did not make any notable additions to its running back room over the offseason and let veteran back Jerome Ford walk in free agency. As a result, Judkins and Sampson appear to be locked in as the Browns' top two rushers for 2026. As long as Judkins fully recovers from the ankle injury that ended his 2025 season and remains healthy in 2026, Sampson's production upside is limited. Still, Sampson carries dynasty handcuff appeal and could offer some standalone value in PPR-scoring formats if he continues to dominate passing-down work. Fantasy managers may want to consider attempting to buy low on Sampson ahead of his second NFL season.