The Cleveland Browns fell 23-20 to the Buffalo Bills on Sunday, a result that carried a cost. The game delivered late swings and a hard call when rookie running back Quinshon Judkins suffered a severe lower-leg injury late in the second quarter.

Judkins was tackled on a short pass and his lower-right leg twisted awkwardly. Trainers tended to him before he was placed in an air cast and carted off. Head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed Judkins suffered a dislocated ankle and a fractured fibula, per Pro Football Talk, NBC Sports. The injuries will require surgery and end his 2025 season.

Judkins, the No. 36 overall pick, entered the game as Cleveland’s leading rusher. He finished the day with 22 yards on eight carries and five catches for 29 yards. Before the injury he had rushed for 827 yards and seven touchdowns in 13 games this season. Early reports suggest a four to five month recovery window, with optimism he could return by spring practice after rehab.

Quarterback Shedeur Sanders played through moments of pain. Sanders completed 20 of 29 passes for 157 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions. He also added four carries for 49 yards. He suffered a finger injury while throwing and was forced to the locker room after blood appeared on his right pinky. Sanders said watching Judkins go down “really hurt,” noting their close bond.

Stefanski praised the team’s fight and expressed confidence in Judkins’ resilience. “Love how the team fights,” he said per MARCA. “Obviously very disappointed for the young man, he will bounce back. I have zero doubt about that.”

With Quinshon Judkins out, the Browns will lean on backups and evaluate their depth in the run game as they close the season and prepare for Judkins’ rehabilitation soon.