Quinshon Judkins: Browns RB Under NFL Conduct Policy Despite No Contract

Cleveland Browns running back Quinshon Judkins, who has not yet signed a contract with the team, is currently subject to the NFL's Personal Conduct Policy following his recent arrest for misdemeanor domestic battery on July 12, 2025. This situation raises important questions about the applicability of the Personal Conduct Policy to players who have not formally entered into contracts with their respective teams.

The NFL's Personal Conduct Policy is designed to maintain a standard of conduct among its players. According to the policy, its provisions are applicable not only to players under contract but also to a broader category of individuals, including rookie players selected in the NFL College Draft, undrafted rookie players, and unsigned veterans from the previous league year. Importantly, the policy states, "all other prospective players once they commence negotiations with a club concerning employment or otherwise make themselves available for employment in the NFL" are also subject to its regulations. This broad language effectively means that Judkins, despite being unsigned, falls under the purview of this policy.

Dr. Thomas Anderson, a Sports Law Professor at the University of California, Berkeley, elaborated on the implications of this policy. He stated, "The NFL has a vested interest in ensuring that even those not formally contracted are held to a standard of conduct that reflects the league's values and public image." This position is further bolstered by past cases, such as that of Bills cornerback Maxwell Hairston, who faced scrutiny for alleged conduct that occurred prior to his entry into the NFL, suggesting that the league's authority extends beyond mere contractual obligations.

Judkins' situation highlights a significant aspect of the NFL's operational framework: the league’s control over player conduct, even before players officially join a team. This was reiterated in an official statement from the NFL, which noted that the league retains the authority to investigate and discipline for potential policy violations, regardless of a player’s contract status.

While some may argue that applying the Personal Conduct Policy to unsigned players is unfair, proponents assert that it serves as a necessary deterrent against misconduct. "The NFL is not just a league; it is a brand that must maintain its integrity. Allowing behaviors that reflect poorly on the league undermines the very foundation of professional sports," commented Sarah Thompson, a legal analyst specializing in sports law.

The implications of Judkins being subject to the Personal Conduct Policy extend beyond his personal circumstances. As the league continues to grapple with issues of player conduct, the precedent set by this case could influence how similar situations are handled in the future, especially concerning unsigned players and their interactions with the league.

Looking ahead, the NFL's approach to player conduct will likely continue to evolve, especially as public scrutiny increases regarding issues of personal behavior and its wider impact on the community. The outcomes of Judkins' case may set a significant precedent for how the league addresses similar issues going forward, particularly as it seeks to balance player rights with the need to uphold its standards of conduct.