Quinshon Judkins Injury: Today | Video | Update | Leg

Cleveland Browns standout rookie running back Quinshon Judkins suffered one of the most severe injuries of the NFL season during the team’s Week 16 game against the Buffalo Bills — a moment that shook the franchise, its fans, and fantasy football managers alike. 

In this comprehensive update, we’ll break down what happened, what the latest medical reports show, reaction to the video, how this affects the Browns’ season, and what the expected recovery timeline looks like. 

The Injury: What Happened Today

On December 21, 2025, at home against the Buffalo Bills, Quinshon Judkins suffered a frightening lower-leg injury late in the second quarter of Sunday’s game. 

Judkins had caught a short screen pass from quarterback Shedeur Sanders when Bills linebacker Matt Milano delivered the hit that changed everything. 

The rookie running back’s right leg twisted awkwardly under him — and, by all accounts and video evidence, his leg appeared to bend in an unnatural way on the field. 

Medical staff responded immediately, placing an air cast on Judkins’ lower leg before carting him off the field. He was ruled out for the rest of the game shortly after. 

This injury was so severe that the national broadcast declined to show a replay of the moment on television due to its graphic nature. 

Video Footage & Reaction

Multiple outlets shared video reactions and clips of the play:

• NFL injury clips circulated on social media showing the moment Judkins went down after the hit.

• Additional posts documented fans reacting to the scene, highlighting the severity of the play.

• Other posts suggested possible knee structural concerns based on video analysis. 

While full replays were often restricted by broadcasts due to their graphic nature, the available video highlights continue to stir reactions across NFL feeds. 

Coach & Team Update

Head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed post-game that Judkins suffered a fractured fibula and dislocated ankle, injuries that will require surgery and effectively end his rookie season. 

Stefanski called it a disappointing moment for the team but expressed confidence in Judkins’ character and ability to recover. 

The Browns’ official team site echoed that Judkins was ruled out for the remainder of the game after the injury occurred late in the second quarter. 

Judkins’ 2025 Season Before the Injury

Before suffering the devastating injury, Judkins was enjoying a breakout rookie campaign:

• 805+ rushing yards

• 7 rushing touchdowns

• Lead role in Cleveland’s offense

• Nearing 1,000 total scrimmage yards for the season 

His injury not only halted a promising day but also abruptly ended one of the most exciting rookie seasons in recent Browns history. 

Medical Details: What the Injury Means

Fractured Fibula

The fibula is one of the two long bones in the lower leg. A fracture here means:

• Severe pain and swelling

• Generally requires immobilization and surgery

• Several months of recovery and rehabilitation

This type of injury is significant but does not directly affect weight-bearing bones as much as a tibial fracture. 

Dislocated Ankle

A dislocation occurs when the bones of the ankle are forced out of their normal positions. Stewart requires:

• Immediate medical reduction

• Surgical stabilization

• Extended rehab

Dislocation plus fracture usually compounds recovery time and raises concerns about ligament damage as well. 

Projected Recovery Timeline

Early reports and medical estimates suggest the following:

 Surgery is required immediately following the injury. 
4–5 months is a potential best-case recovery timeframe if no additional complications arise. 
This means the 2025 season is over for Judkins. 
Return to offseason training and 2026 preparations is the earliest realistic scenario.

Rehab will be crucial — and while Judkins is expected to return to full football function, exact timing can vary based on surgical outcomes and healing speed. 

Impact on the Browns Offense

Losing Judkins has immediate and long-term effects:

 Cleveland’s rushing attack loses its most dynamic playmaker. 
 Offensive depth is tested behind him, especially with other RB injuries. 
 The Browns will need to lean on backups like Raheim Sanders and Trayveon Williams for the remainder of the season. 

This injury doesn’t just impact Cleveland’s win probability — it also shifts offensive playcalling and workload distribution late in the season. 

Fan and Analyst Reactions

From stunned fans to fantasy football managers, the injury sparked waves of concern:

• Social media buzzed with shock at how his leg bent on the play.

• Analysts debated the severity and potential for ligament involvement. 

• Browns supporters flooded X and other platforms with well wish messages. 

Judkins was seen as a future franchise cornerstone — and the community responded accordingly. 

What Comes Next for Judkins

Here’s what we can expect in his recovery journey:

1. Immediate Surgery: To address the dislocation and fibula fracture. 

2. Immobilization & Healing: Several weeks in a cast or boot. 

3. Physical Therapy: Vital to regain strength, mobility, and confidence. 

4. Return to Football Activities: Likely during spring or early summer training. 

Judkins’ resilience and work ethic will be major factors in how quickly he returns to elite form. 

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. What exactly is Quinshon Judkins’ injury?

Judkins suffered a fractured fibula and dislocated ankle during the Browns’ Week 16 game against the Bills. 

2. Will he return in 2025?

No — the injury is season-ending and requires surgery, making a return this season highly unlikely. 

3. What is the expected recovery timeline?

Initial estimates suggest 4–5 months before Judkins can return to full football activities.

4. Is this a career-threatening injury?

While severe, fibula fractures and ankle dislocations are typically recoverable with proper surgical care and rehabilitation. 

5. How does this impact the Browns?

Cleveland loses its leading rusher and a key offensive weapon, forcing changes to their backfield rotation. 

Conclusion

The injury to Quinshon Judkins today stands as one of the most impactful events of the NFL’s second half, both for the Cleveland Browns and for the wider football community. With surgery looming, months of rehab ahead, and a tough road back, Judkins’ resilience will be tested — but the expectations are that he will return stronger.