:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67371676/usa_today_13828858.0.jpg)
The Cleveland Browns have the best 1-2 running back duo in the league with Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt. And now they have those two backs tied to the team through next season. Hunt was set to make $3.26 million on his one-year tender, but the extension will give him $8.5 million guaranteed and double his average salary.
The #Browns are giving RB Kareem Hunt a 2-year, $13.25M extension, source said. Cleveland keeps him for 3 years, Hunt gets paid.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 8, 2020
Hunt played well with the Browns last season after serving his five-game suspension, but was still undoubtedly the No. 2 back behind Chubb. Next season Chubb will be on the final year of his rookie contract and will likely want an extension before he plays if he continues his strong play as the lead back. At that point, the team will evaluate their cap in making that move, but Hunt’s deal appears reasonable enough and shouldn’t keep the team from keeping Chubb longterm if they want. But, in the end, this hurts Chubb in dynasty, as we know he won’t have the backfield to himself for the next three years.
Hunt remains a solid RB3 in fantasy, as his ability allows him to be productive on fewer targets and his receiving ability pushes his numbers up in PPR leagues. He’s a good player to have on your fake teams, as he can give you a strong flex play while also serving as a no-doubt first round fantasy value id Chubb ever misses time with an injury.