Star running back Kareem Hunt requests trade out of Cleveland

One of the NFL’s most talented running backs, Kareem Hunt, is fed up with his contract and has requested a trade from his current team, the Cleveland Browns. Hunt is an elite talent and while he is already 27, which is old for an NFL running back, he should be a valuable asset for any team. Hunt is on the second year of his 2 year $12 million deal with the Browns and Hunt would like a contract extension that would guarantee him a more secure future. It appears the Browns aren’t interested in extending him, so a trade may be his only way out.

Hunt rose to prominence with the Kansas City Chiefs and his blend of physicality and agility made him one of the best runners in the NFL. After a domestic violence case, however, Hunt was cut and was eventually picked up by the Browns. In Cleveland, Hunt still showcased his talent but was in more of a split backfield as the Browns have another elite running back in Nick Chubb.

As of right now, the Browns have denied his trade request but considering Hunt has been holding out of training camp, they may not have a choice for much longer. Hunt battled injuries last year and was only able to play in eight games. In those games, he rushed for 386 yards and had five rushing touchdowns. While he couldn’t stay healthy, Hunt still showed off the efficiency that makes him so appealing and he averaged 4.9 yards per carry.

Regardless, this is just more drama coming out of Cleveland as they are still trying to sort out the Deshaun Watson situation. The Browns are currently +2400 with Bovada to win the Super Bowl and while Cleveland should be improved on previous years, they are still a few pieces from being true title contenders. Also, if Hunt leaves, that will put a small dent in their odds as Chubb and Hunt’s backfield partnership is one of the most dominant across the NFL.

A bet that is interesting but a longshot nonetheless, is Kareem Hunt to lead the league in rushing yards at +15000. The success of this bet would hinge on Hunt getting out Cleveland but if he joins a team where he is the clear cut starter, he has a chance to dominate. Hunt had nearly 1,400 yards in his rookie season with Kansas City but hasn’t been a starter since then. If he gets his wish and is traded, he would presumably start for whoever acquired him and his odds of +15000 would be a steal. It’s a longshot, but Hunt has all the talent in the world and he simply needs the opportunity to display it.

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