Cleveland Sports Journal
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CLEVELAND SPORTS JOURNAL
June 10, 2025
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🏈 "Mr. Chubb": Two Words That Say It All
By Steve King
Contributing Columnist, CSJ
There has been no shortage of words written about Nick Chubb recently — and rightfully so. The beloved former Browns running back, the heartbeat of Cleveland’s offense for the better part of a decade, signed a free-agent deal with the Houston Texans this past week.
But amid all the analysis, accolades, and farewell montages, the most meaningful tribute to Chubb didn’t come from a Browns fan, a Cleveland columnist, or even someone within the AFC North who bleeds orange and brown.
It came from Pittsburgh.
From a rival.
From Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin.
And it was just two words: “Mr. Chubb.”
🤝 Respect Where It’s Rare
In a league full of egos and endless soundbites, “Mr. Chubb” stands out not just for its simplicity but for the profound respect it conveys. Tomlin didn’t say it once for a headline — he has repeatedly referred to Chubb that way for years. Not “Chubb,” not “No. 24,” not “the Browns’ back.” Mr. Chubb — a title reserved for those who carry themselves with dignity, humility, and relentless professionalism.
You don’t get called Mr. in Pittsburgh if you wear brown and orange — unless you’ve truly earned it.
And Chubb has.
🏟 A Moment Bigger Than the Game
If you watched that Monday Night Football game on September 18, 2023, you remember the moment. Chubb’s season — and possibly his career — took a brutal turn after a devastating leg injury at Heinz Field. But what happened next told you everything you needed to know.
A standing ovation.
From Steelers fans.
For a Browns player.
In that moment, the rivalry melted away. All that remained was human decency — and admiration for a man who had always let his work ethic, not his words, do the talking.
🔁 Moving On, But Never Forgotten
Nick Chubb’s departure to Houston marks the end of an era in Cleveland. He leaves as one of the most respected players in franchise history — not just for what he did on the field, but for how he did it. No drama. No headlines. Just grit, grace, and greatness.
As we look ahead to a new chapter for the Browns, we do so with a deep appreciation for the standard Chubb set. One we can only hope future players will follow.
So today, from all of us at the Cleveland Sports Journal, we join Coach Tomlin — and fans from across the NFL — in tipping our cap.
To Mr. Chubb.
🗞 Upcoming:
Guardians Rising: How Cleveland's bats are heating up at the perfect time
Cavs Coaching Carousel: Who's in the mix to lead the post-Donovan era?
From the Dawg Pound: Fan reactions to Chubb’s departure — raw, real, and emotional
Flashback Feature: The greatest runs of Nick Chubb’s Browns career — relived and rewatched
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