Cleveland Browns running back Kareem Hunt has been looking for a contract extensionand since he has not yet granted his request, it appears that he is now trying to pressure the franchise by not participating in team exercises.
CBS Sports NFL Insider Jonathan Jones confirmed the Browns currently have no interest in trading Hunt, after Cleveland.com reported that Hunt was asking for a trade.
This news comes next CBS Sports NFL Insider Josina Anderson reported on Saturday that Hunt did not participate in team practice for the second consecutive practice. Hunt has also informed the team that this is his plan. Anderson reports that Hunt’s “hold-in” is not believed to be health-related, and that he is subject to fines from the Browns. Hunt has also reportedly informally told members of the Browns that he wants to be paid or traded, but a source told Anderson that Hunt would rather stay in Cleveland.
“Right now I’m just taking it day by day, man,” Hunt said at mini-camp in June. “I’m going to see what they want to do with me and I’m just taking it day by day. Hopefully I can be here for the long haul. We’ll see what God has in mind for me, that’s all I can say.”
Hunt has one year left from the two-year extension he signed in 2020 that will pay him $1.35 million in base salary and $6.25 million in annual cash, per Spotrac.
The former Pro Bowler and 2017 NFL rushing yards leader played in just eight games for Cleveland last year due to a calf injury. Hunt’s best campaign with Cleveland came in 2020, when he racked up 1,145 yards from scrimmage and 11 total touchdowns. The Browns are keen to keep the dynamic duo they have in running back with Hunt and Nick Chubb, but it remains to be seen whether they will extend their pass-catching back for the start of the 2022 season.