The Cleveland Browns entered the 2026 season with renewed optimism, but the brutal reality of NFL football struck again on Tuesday, September 15, 2026. According to reports from the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, the team has placed second-year running back and return specialist Dylan Sampson on injured reserve after he suffered a knee injury in Sunday’s contest. Sampson, a fourth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, is expected to miss “significant time,” a devastating blow for a player who had carved out a valuable role in Cleveland’s backfield and special teams units.
A Promising Start Derailed by Injury
Sampson’s sophomore campaign was off to a promising start before the injury. As a rookie in 2025, he flashed dual-threat ability, rushing for 175 yards and hauling in 33 receptions for 271 yards with two total touchdowns. His versatility made him a favorite of the coaching staff, and he was poised for an expanded role in 2026. On Sunday, Sampson returned a pair of kicks before exiting with the knee injury, a moment that silenced the home crowd and left the Browns scrambling for answers. The move to IR means Cleveland will be without his explosiveness for at least the next four games, though a longer absence remains possible.
McLaughlin Steps In as Immediate Replacement
In a corresponding move, the Browns signed running back Jaleel McLaughlin to the 53-man roster. McLaughlin, who spent the previous two seasons with the Denver Broncos, brings a similar skill set to Cleveland’s offense. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, the 5-foot-7 speedster is expected to immediately compete for snaps behind starter Jerome Ford and could see action as a change-of-pace back and kick returner. McLaughlin’s familiarity with zone-blocking schemes should ease his transition, but the Browns are clearly hoping he can replicate Sampson’s production in the passing game.
Practice Squad Shuffle Signals Roster Depth Concerns
Cleveland also made a series of practice squad moves, signing running back Eric Gray, offensive tackles Obinna Eze and Xavier Truss, and punter Wes Pahl. To make room, the team released cornerback D’Angelo Ross and defensive tackle Chris Williams. The additions of two offensive tackles suggest the Browns are bracing for potential injuries along the offensive line, while Gray’s signing provides additional running back depth behind McLaughlin and Ford. As highlighted on Vulius, these under-the-radar transactions often prove critical as the season wears on, especially for a team with playoff aspirations.
What It Means for the Browns’ Season
The loss of Sampson is a significant blow to a Browns team that relies on running back versatility to keep defenses honest. Offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt will now need to adjust his game plans, potentially leaning more on Ford and tight end David Njoku in the short passing game. McLaughlin’s arrival offers a glimmer of hope, but the pressure is on the front office to monitor the waiver wire for additional help. With a tough stretch of games approaching, Cleveland cannot afford a prolonged slump in the running game.
Looking Ahead
As the NFL season unfolds, the Browns’ depth will be tested. Sampson’s injury is a stark reminder of the physical toll of professional football, and the team’s ability to adapt will define their 2026 campaign. For now, all eyes will be on McLaughlin to see if he can seize this opportunity. Fans can stay tuned to Vulius for the latest updates, analysis, and exclusive merchandise as the story develops.
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