Browns RB Nyheim Hines (knee) aims for training camp return, wants to be 'the offensive threat that I am'

Ten months after a fluke accident that derailed his 2023 season before it could even begin, Cleveland Browns running back Nyheim Hines is ready to build on where he was pre-injury.

Hines suffered an ACL tear in July last year during a jet ski incident where he was struck by another rider. As a result, he spent the entire 2023 season on the Buffalo Bills’ injured reserve list.

“This week, Hines spoke through team transcripts, reflecting on his recent experiences. “I didn’t see it as a blessing in disguise, but rather as an opportunity to learn,” he said. “This is certainly the most challenging period of my life. However, I have a firm belief that everything worthwhile is on the other side of hardship… So, if I can overcome this tough phase, I believe brighter days are ahead for me.”

Hines, who signed with Cleveland this offseason, informed reporters this week that he won’t be participating in OTAs. However, he anticipates being prepared for minicamp towards the end of July and maintains his aim to be playing by Week 1.

Since being drafted by the Colts in the fourth round of the 2018 NFL Draft, Hines has served as a running back and return specialist. Over his four-plus years in Indianapolis, Hines has notched up 300 carries for 1,205 yards and 235 catches for 1,725 yards, primarily in a backup role. He also added 1,125 yards from punt and kickoff returns.

After being traded to the Bills midway through the 2022 season, he was used more as a returner, including in a memorable Week 18 win where he had kickoff returns of 96 yards and 101 yards for touchdowns. He was expected to have a larger role in 2023, before his knee injury put a wrench in those plans.

Hines hopes to return to making an impact in the return game with his new squad, saying he believes the kickoff rule change this year could “favor” players like him, but he’s not planning on settling for just a special teams role.

Hines stated, “I may not be the most substantial guy out there, but fear is not an option for me. I plan on standing my ground. I’ve made a name for myself with my pass-catching skills, so the notion of being just a return specialist felt somewhat disrespectful. To be honest, I can’t name a single return specialist who boasts over 230 catches in a span of five years.”

Therefore, it seems like people have forgotten that I was traded in Buffalo, only managed to play 10 games, and had to adapt to a new offense. Moreover, I didn’t get the chance to play last year. I’m eager to demonstrate my offensive prowess. I assure you, I am as much a threat on the offense as I am in the return game, be it passing, catching, kicking, or when in empty.

He’ll be competing for a role in the running back corps behind Nick Chubb and Jerome Ford, though Chubb is also working toward his own return from a serious knee injury. Chubb tore his MCL and damaged his ACL in Week 2 of last season, and Hines said he’s been learning from Chubb as they walk their similar recovery paths.

Hines said, “During my initial weeks here, we underwent rehab together, which was a wonderful experience. It was genuinely good to spend time, especially in the running back room, with the guys. Nick, who is one of the top running backs in the league, is someone I eagerly look forward to learning from. Having known him for some time now, I am thrilled about the opportunity to collaborate with him. This has significantly boosted my mental strength.”