Browns’ Veteran RB Makes Unexpected Move to Chiefs, Leaving Cleveland Fans in Shock
In a stunning turn of events, veteran running back Kareem Hunt, who spent the last five seasons with the Cleveland Browns, is making a homecoming of sorts to the Kansas City Chiefs. The move has caught both Cleveland fans and NFL analysts by surprise, reigniting memories of Hunt’s early days with the Chiefs and stirring mixed emotions within both fanbases.
The Breaking News
NFL insider Tom Pelissero first broke the story on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), announcing that the Kansas City Chiefs had signed Hunt to their practice squad. The decision comes in response to a series of injuries that have plagued the Chiefs’ backfield, most notably an injury to standout running back Isiah Pacheco. Hunt’s signing signals Kansas City’s urgency to find a reliable solution and reinforce their offensive depth.
Pelissero noted, “After the injury to Isiah Pacheco, Kansas City brought in Hunt – the team’s 2017 third-round pick – for a workout. He should have a chance to play soon.” This development has sparked speculation about how quickly Hunt could make an impact on the field, given his familiarity with the Chiefs’ offensive system.
Hunt’s Rollercoaster Journey: From KC Star to Cleveland Standout
Kareem Hunt’s return to Kansas City brings his career full circle. Hunt was originally drafted by the Chiefs in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft, and he made an immediate impact. In his rookie season, he led the league in rushing with 1,327 yards and eight touchdowns, earning him a Pro Bowl nod. His dynamic performance made him one of the most electrifying players in the NFL, and he quickly became a fan favorite.
However, Hunt’s career took a drastic turn in 2018. Midway through what was shaping up to be another strong season, a video surfaced showing him involved in an altercation with a woman, in which he pushed her to the ground and kicked her. The Chiefs swiftly released him in November of that year, despite his on-field success.
Shortly after his release, the Cleveland Browns took a chance on Hunt, signing him in 2019. During his five seasons with the Browns, Hunt played a key role in the team’s running game, often serving as a dynamic counterpart to star running back Nick Chubb. Over his 64 games with Cleveland, Hunt racked up 2,285 rushing yards, 25 touchdowns, and 1,057 receiving yards. His versatility as a dual-threat back made him a critical asset in Cleveland’s offense, but his time with the Browns was also marked by occasional injuries that limited his availability.
The Reaction from Cleveland
The news of Hunt’s departure from Cleveland to Kansas City has left many Browns fans in disbelief. While Hunt was not expected to be the team’s primary back with Chubb firmly entrenched as the starter, his presence provided the Browns with a reliable option, particularly in the passing game. Now, with Hunt gone, Cleveland must find ways to adjust without the veteran’s production and experience.
Fans took to social media to express their mixed feelings about the move. Some were sad to see him go, particularly given his contributions over the years, while others were more focused on the team’s current running back depth. Hunt’s exit, however, comes at a time when Cleveland’s offense is facing questions about its ability to consistently perform, making his loss even more significant.
Kansas City’s Gamble on Familiar Ground
For the Chiefs, Hunt’s signing represents a calculated risk with high potential rewards. Kansas City’s running back room, already dealing with Pacheco’s injury, needed an experienced and versatile player, and Hunt fits the bill perfectly. Hunt is intimately familiar with the Chiefs’ offensive schemes under head coach Andy Reid, and he could provide an immediate boost to the team’s ground game as they aim to maintain their status as one of the top contenders in the AFC.
However, questions remain about Hunt’s current form. While he showcased flashes of brilliance during his time in Cleveland, his production had declined in recent seasons. The Chiefs will be hoping that a return to Kansas City can reignite the same spark that made him one of the league’s top backs early in his career.
For Kansas City fans, Hunt’s return brings a mixture of nostalgia and excitement. Many still remember his dazzling runs and ability to break tackles during his rookie season, and there is hope that he can replicate some of that magic as the Chiefs navigate a challenging season.
What’s Next for Kareem Hunt?
As Hunt prepares to rejoin the Chiefs, all eyes will be on how quickly he can adapt and contribute. Given the Chiefs’ immediate need for backfield reinforcements, there’s a strong chance that Hunt will see playing time sooner rather than later. His ability to perform in both the running and passing games could give Kansas City’s offense a new dimension, especially as the team deals with injuries to key players.
For the Browns, Hunt’s departure signals a shift in their offensive dynamics. While Nick Chubb remains one of the league’s elite backs, Cleveland will need to find ways to maintain balance and ensure that they have adequate depth moving forward.
In the broader context of the NFL, Hunt’s journey from Cleveland back to Kansas City highlights the unpredictable nature of the league, where second chances and unexpected reunions are never off the table. For Kareem Hunt, this homecoming is more than just a return to familiar turf—it’s an opportunity to rewrite his narrative and make his mark once again on one of the NFL’s most high-profile teams.
