After spending all of his career with the Cleveland Browns, the long-time tight end David Njoku might be auditioning for a new team this season. Njoku was the subject of trade rumors this past offseason, so it could be any week that the Browns might be willing to dangle him on the trade block. The only thing that will stop them is the depth, and they don’t really have anyone other than Njoku, who could take his place unless they trade for a tight end in return. This trade will only happen if the Browns endure another losing season, which is likely, as the team brought in two new quarterbacks in Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders.
However, the good news is that Joe Flacco, who has a ton of experience, will be starting, but it’s something to watch. Originally selected in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft, the former Miami product became a Pro Bowler in 2023, recording 58 receptions for 628 receiving yards and four touchdowns in his 2022 campaign. However, he hasn’t been the same since getting into a freak accident the year after that, but he still has a lot in the tank left to provide for a potential contender. Njoku isn’t going to garner the best investment in return, but he’s entering the final year of his contract, and if the Browns are nowhere near contenders, it might be better to trade him while he still has value, so they could continue to build a new roster.
Browns Legend David Njoku May Be “Auditioning” for New Team – Trade is Likely
Next Possible Teams
New Orleans Saints
The New Orleans Saints are not contenders, but it’s clear that they’re trying to make at least a run. After trading for DeVaughn Vele and claiming Trey Palmer off waivers, the team is constructing probably one of the most promising receiving groups in a long time. This comes after signing veteran Brandin Cooks earlier this offseason, so it’s obvious that new head coach Kellen Moore is rebuilding. Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed won’t receive fewer snaps, but they need some extra depth behind Juwan Johnson.
Njoku could battle it out with Johnson for the starting spot, so either way, they’ll have two capable tight ends, who could make some worthy noise on the field.
Washington Commanders
Despite extending veteran tight end Zach Ertz to a new contract, the Washington Commanders must figure out the future after him. The team also extended John Bates, who is a versatile pass and run-blocker, but not so much of a capable tight end who could catch balls in all moments. Ben Sinnott is coming off his worst rookie campaign, so Njoku could be a viable replacement while they figure something out.
Kansas City Chiefs
Meanwhile, the Kansas City Chiefs are riding in the same boat. After he engaged with Taylor Swift, tight end Travis Kelce is setting up life after the NFL. Between Noah Gray and Robert Tonyan, they could use a more efficient replacement. Njoku will never be Kelce 2.0, but he could keep this tight end room competitive.
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