Dylan Sampson Fantasy Overview

2024 Summary

College Production

Sampson erupted in his final season at Tennessee, posting 1,491 rushing yards and 22 TDs on 258 carries (5.8 yards per carry).

He added 143 receiving yards on 20 catches and was a consistent big-play threat in both phases.

He did all of this at the age of 20, the youngest RB at this year’s NFL Combine.

Usage & Role

Sampson handled a featured workload in 2024, accounting for 58.4% of Tennessee’s RB rushing yards and commanding a 7.0% target share.

He lined up in the slot or out wide on only 3.5% of snaps in 2024. The offense mostly targeted Sampson behind the line, with a -0.4 average target depth.

Despite the lack of receiving usage, that could be Sampson’s NFL role as he showcased soft hands and elusiveness in space.

Efficiency Metrics

Sampson ranked among the top 15 RBs at the NFL Combine in several categories:

• 3.6 yards after contact per attempt
• 0.27 missed tackles forced per attempt
• 107.5 PFF Elusive Rating
• 0.4 rushing yards over expected
• 6.6% breakaway rate

He also ranked top five with a 2024 PFF rushing grade of 90.9.

Historical Production & Trends

Sampson improved all three years at Tennessee, culminating in elite 2024 production and efficiency.

His role increased every season, improving in:

• Carries
• Rushing Yards
• Rushing TDs
• Receptions

Injury History

Sampson avoided major injuries throughout college and enters the NFL with a clean bill of health.

His only notable injury was a hamstring that forced him out of his final game vs. Ohio State in the playoffs.

2025 Expectations

Projected Role & Competition

Despite being drafted in Round 4, Sampson has a chance to earn a role this season.

The Browns spent a second-round pick on Quinshon Judkins, who is expected to be the lead back.

They also still have RBs Jerome Ford and Pierre Strong Jr.

Sampson will likely compete with Ford for snaps, but the rookie’s youth and potential as a receiver gives him much more upside than Ford.

Supporting Cast

Cleveland’s QB situation is open with the Browns bringing in QBs Kenny Pickett and Joe Flacco while also drafting Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders.

In terms of the passing game, WR Jerry Jeudy broke out last year with Cedric Tillman also flashing talent. The Browns also signed veteran Diontae Johnson.

TE David Njoku adds a safety valve and red zone threat.

The Browns’ OL returns all five starters from last year. They were steady last year (10th in pass block and 14th in run block win rate, according to ESPN), offering a stable environment for the offensive skill positions.

Coaching & Offensive Scheme

Cleveland’s offense drastically changed in 2024 under OC Ken Dorsey, jumping from a 56.4% pass rate in 2023 up to a 65.0% pass rate. The Browns ranked top five in pass attempts.

Despite ranking last in points scored, the Browns ranked top-10 in pass volume and neutral pass rate (59.7%).

Sampson could benefit if he can earn a pass-catching role.