As free agency approaches in the NFL, the legal tampering period begins on March 10, allowing teams to negotiate with pending free agents. The franchise tag deadline on March 4 will clarify which players will hit the open market. Notably, several teams boast impressive free agent classes, including the Minnesota Vikings, Kansas City Chiefs, and Philadelphia Eagles, each featuring top-rated players from CBS Sports' list.

The Vikings’ Sam Darnold, projected as a top free agent, threw for over 4,300 yards last season. Similarly, the Eagles are expected to retain key contributors like Josh Sweat and Milton Williams, who were instrumental in their recent Super Bowl run. The Chargers and Steelers also present intriguing prospects with several players poised to attract significant interest in the upcoming free agency.

Nick Chubb, the Cleveland Browns' running back, reflects on his challenging journey back to the field after suffering a severe knee injury last year. In a heartfelt piece for The Players Tribune, he shares the struggles of his rehabilitation and the emotional toll it took on him.

Chubb's return coincided with a game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, the same team where he was injured. Despite not yet regaining his Pro Bowl form, his presence is vital to the team and resonates deeply with fans.

The AFC North showdown on Sunday features the struggling Cleveland Browns facing the high-flying Baltimore Ravens. With a record of 1-6, the Browns hope for a spark as Jameis Winston steps in for the injured Deshaun Watson. Meanwhile, the Ravens, boasting a 5-2 record, are riding a five-game winning streak, led by MVP candidate Lamar Jackson.

Both teams have faced challenges; the Ravens' defense has been shaky, allowing over 20 points in most games, while the Browns' offense has struggled significantly. Betting trends favor Baltimore, with the Ravens having a strong record against the spread and on the road.

The Cleveland Browns will be without leading rusher Jerome Ford due to a hamstring injury, but running back Nick Chubb is set to make his season debut against the Cincinnati Bengals. After recovering from a severe left knee injury that required two surgeries, Chubb has been practicing and is expected to play, as confirmed by coach Kevin Stefanski.

Stefanski noted a plan is in place to manage Chubb's workload, ensuring he remains healthy for the long term. Chubb expressed readiness to contribute to his team as he returns to the field after more than a year. Additionally, Nyheim Hines is also unlikely to play due to his own recovery from a knee injury, while the team has ruled out safety Ronnie Hickman.

Cleveland is optimistic about its offensive capabilities this Sunday as head coach Kevin Stefanski indicated that running back Nick Chubb is expected to play against the Bengals despite being listed as questionable.

Chubb, who is recovering from a significant knee injury sustained last season, had an impressive performance in 2022 with 1,525 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns. The team is also monitoring other injuries, including those of Nyheim Hines, Ethan Pocic, Jordan Hicks, and Juan Thornhill.