Nick Chubb will stay with the only team he’s ever known as he works his way back from multiple knee surgeries. But he’ll do so on a restructured deal.

According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Browns and Chubb agreed to a restructured deal on Thursday that will reduce Chubb’s base salary in 2024 by $1.775 million. Rapoport said Chubb will have the opportunity to recoup that money through incentives.

As Rapoport noted, the Browns’ salary cap space was sixth-lowest in the NFL before the deal was restructured.

Cleveland.com’s Dan Labbe noted in January that the team could have saved a significant amount of money by releasing Chubb, but did not do so because he’s “more than a cap number to this team” and “a beloved teammate.”

Chubb sustained a knee injury during Week 2 of the 2023 season against the Pittsburgh Steelers. ESPN’s Jake Trotter reported that he underwent surgical procedures in September to address damage to the medial capsule, meniscus, and MCL, followed by another surgery in November to repair the ACL.

Remarkably, it was the same left knee that required surgical reconstruction due to a torn MCL, PCL, and LCL during his time at Georgia in 2015.

General manager Andrew Berry expressed the organization’s desire to see Chubb return to the field for the Cleveland Browns, emphasizing that they do not intend to part ways with him despite the challenges. The Browns faced multiple setbacks throughout the season, with quarterback Deshaun Watson also sidelined. Nonetheless, they managed to secure a playoff spot, with veteran Joe Flacco leading the offense and second-year running back Jerome Ford contributing to the rushing attack.

Ford’s presence provides some relief for Chubb as he navigates his return in 2024. Ford impressed with 813 rushing yards, four touchdowns, and 44 receptions for 319 yards and five scores.

However, Ford’s performance cannot match Chubb’s illustrious career. As a four-time Pro Bowler and 2018 second-round draft pick, Chubb showcased his talent by rushing for 1,525 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2022, alongside 27 catches for 239 yards and one touchdown. He maintained a streak of four consecutive seasons with over 1,000 rushing yards, establishing himself as one of the premier running backs in the league.

Nonetheless, at 28 years old and recovering from his second major knee injury, doubts linger about Chubb’s ability to return to peak form in 2024 and beyond. As he embarks on his comeback journey, his contract situation may undergo adjustments to reflect his circumstances.