McLaughlin and Estime Lead Browns Past Ravens
The backup running backs stepped into starting roles to help Cleveland secure a 13-10 win over Baltimore.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Football
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Jaleel McLaughlin and Audric Estime powered the Cleveland Browns offense in a 13-10 victory over the Baltimore Ravens. The duo stepped up as replacements for inactive running backs Quinshon Judkins and Dylan Sampson.
Why it matters
The victory moves the Browns into first place in their division following a successful integration of backup personnel into the game plan. Head coach Todd Monken adapted the strategy after both primary backs were ruled out with ankle and knee injuries.
Jaleel McLaughlin recorded 41 yards on 9 carries, while Audric Estime added 19 yards and a touchdown on 9 carries. The duo combined for an average of 3.3 yards per carry in the 13-10 win.
The players
Jaleel McLaughlin
He is a running back for the Cleveland Browns who recorded 41 yards on 9 carries in the recent victory.
Audric Estime
He is a running back who signed with the Browns on October 13 after leaving the Minnesota Vikings practice squad.
Todd Monken
He is the head coach of the Cleveland Browns who integrated the backup running backs into the game plan.
Quinshon Judkins
He is an injured running back for the Cleveland Browns who was inactive for the game due to an ankle injury.
Dylan Sampson
He is a running back for the Cleveland Browns who was ruled out for the game due to a knee injury.
The details
Coaching staff integrated McLaughlin and Estime into the game plan after they prepared as the expected starters. Audric Estime, who joined the team on October 13 from the Minnesota Vikings practice squad, contributed his first touchdown in the win.
Timeline
October 13, 2026: Audric Estime signed with the Cleveland Browns.
October 19, 2026: Jaleel McLaughlin and Todd Monken held Zoom calls.
October 25, 2026: Cleveland Browns play the Tennessee Titans.
Season Trajectory
This victory shifts the Browns into first place in their division, fundamentally changing the team's standing in the playoff race. The performance of the backup running backs suggests greater depth as the team enters the latter half of the season schedule.
The emergence of this duo provides fantasy managers with potential waiver-wire value given their increased workload and goal-line usage. Their performance solidifies the Browns' rotation as the team prepares to face Tennessee.
The takeaway
Depth on the roster can prove critical when injuries force unexpected personnel changes in key positions. Managing a rotation of players allows a team to remain competitive even when starters are unavailable.
What happens next
The Cleveland Browns are scheduled to face the Tennessee Titans on October 25, 2026.
Further reading
For more updates on the team, visit the Cleveland Football section.
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