After penning his farewell to the Cleveland Browns on social media, former longtime Brown David Njoku is preparing to move on in free agency next month. Njoku has spent his entire career with the Browns, but now he has a shot at signing wherever he wants, and it looks like the veteran wants to join a new team. Originally selected in the 2017 NFL Draft, the former Pro Bowler been one of the most stable pass-catchers in Cleveland. Despite losing quarterback Baker Mayfield a few seasons ago, Njoku has continued to stay consistent throughout his career.
Unfortunately for him, all good things must come to an end, but this is a chance for the tight end to sign with a contender.
Former Browns First-Round Pick David Njoku Set for Free Agency – 3 Teams Who Could Sign Him
Njoku isn’t going to get a contract priced near the market value of Isaiah Likely and Kyle Pitts, but he has a good chance of signing a two-year deal at minimum. At age 29, it’s hard to imagine he signs a long-term contract compared to Pitts or Likely. However, teams that are limited in cap space flexibility in the market may be able to sign him.
While he’s coming off battling with an injury, Njoku is still a reliable pass-catcher when healthy. After the Browns took Harold Fannin Jr. in last year’s draft, the team has been using him and Njoku. Of course, Fannin took advantage of Njoku missing time, and with head coach Todd Monken stepping in, it makes sense why they’re committing to Fannin. Here are three teams that could sign Njoku and give him a decent contract, and become a versatile starter despite recording under just 300 receiving yards.
Possible Fits
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Buccaneers are slated to lose tight end Cade Otton this offseason. While Otton wants to return to Tampa Bay, the team hasn’t entertained any type of contract negotiation. With wide receiver Mike Evans possibly leaving, the Buccaneers are most likely overhauling their entire offensive weapon unit. Njoku won’t be the youngest weapon a part of this offense, but reuniting with quarterback Baker Mayfield might be what’s needed to get this team to the next level.
They have plenty of talented receivers like Emeka Egbuka, but they’re in need of a blocking receiver to help the ground game elevate.
Washington Commanders
Meanwhile, it looks like the Commanders may go in a different direction without tight end Zach Ertz. After letting Kliff Kingsbury go, it’s almost a guarantee that Ertz is gone. Ertz is coming off a season-ending torn ACL last season, and that might’ve been the last time anyone will see him in a Commander uniform. While he desires to continue playing, it probably won’t be in Washington.
2024 draft pick Ben Sinnott hasn’t distinguished himself as a capable tight end for this group, but Njoku could wake up the room and offer Jayden Daniels another high-stakes weapon in the aerial attack.
Kansas City Chiefs
This is the most logical fit for Njoku. The Chiefs don’t have the financial flexibility to afford Likely or Pitts, but they can get Njoku. Patrick Mahomes is at risk of losing Rashee Rice again due to another investigation. While Travis Kelce is aiming to return, there’s no guarantee there.
Njoku is a cost-effective investment for the team. Noah Gray isn’t there yet to be a full-time starter, and with the Chiefs planning to compete again in 2026, expect them to get a veteran weapon like Njoku.