Cleveland Browns tight end David Njoku announced on Tuesday that he will not return to the team for the 2026 season. The veteran playmaker, who is currently scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent, confirmed the news via the announcement, marking the end of a long-standing tenure with the franchise that originally selected him in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft.
Throughout his time in Cleveland, Njoku established himself as one of the most athletic and reliable targets in the AFC. He reached career-highs in several statistical categories during his 2023 Pro Bowl season, proving to be a vital component of the Browns' offensive scheme. His unique ability to create mismatches against linebackers and safeties made him a consistent favorite target in high-pressure situations and a primary threat in the red zone.
The departure of Njoku creates a significant vacancy on the Cleveland depth chart heading into the 2026 league year. While the Browns currently have Jordan Akins as a primary option at the position, the front office will likely need to seek additional talent through the upcoming draft or free agency to fill the void left by the veteran's production. This transition represents a major roster shift for the Cleveland offense as they prepare for the upcoming season.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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