Chargers Unlikely to Pursue Veteran Tight End David Njoku

The Chargers are better off focusing on developing their young tight end Oronde Gadsden.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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The Los Angeles Chargers have been linked to veteran tight end David Njoku, who is set to hit free agency. However, signing Njoku may not make the most sense for the Chargers, who have a promising young tight end in Oronde Gadsden already on the roster. The Chargers should prioritize building around Gadsden's development and connection with quarterback Justin Herbert, rather than disrupting that by bringing in the 30-year-old Njoku on a lucrative contract.

Why it matters

The Chargers have a talented young tight end in Oronde Gadsden, who emerged as a top threat in the passing game last season. Signing the veteran Njoku could stunt Gadsden's growth and take opportunities away from him. The Chargers would be better served focusing their resources on other areas of need, like the offensive line, rather than investing heavily in the tight end position.

The details

Njoku, a one-time Pro Bowler, is projected to command a two-year deal worth nearly $20 million on the open market. While the Chargers have the cap space to afford such a contract, it may not be the best use of their resources. Gadsden showed promise as a fifth-round rookie last season, and the arrival of new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel could further unlock his potential. The Chargers should prioritize Gadsden's development and long-term connection with quarterback Justin Herbert, rather than potentially disrupting that by bringing in the veteran Njoku.

  • Njoku informed the Cleveland Browns that he intends to test free agency in 2026.

The players

David Njoku

A 30-year-old tight end who is set to hit free agency after spending the first six seasons of his career with the Cleveland Browns.

Oronde Gadsden

A fifth-round rookie tight end for the Los Angeles Chargers who emerged as a top threat in the passing game last season.

Justin Herbert

The starting quarterback for the Los Angeles Chargers.

Mike McDaniel

The new offensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Chargers, hired to help take the team's offense to the next level.

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What they’re saying

“The big-name additions of Mike McDaniel and Adam Gase to the Chargers' staff is indicitive of their goal to bring their offense to the next level. Signing Njoku would further that vision by adding a proven playmaker to the mix.”

— Mike Kadlick, Sports Illustrated Writer (Sports Illustrated)

The takeaway

The Chargers are better off focusing their resources on developing their young tight end Oronde Gadsden, who has shown promise, rather than investing heavily in the veteran David Njoku. Signing Njoku could disrupt Gadsden's growth and connection with Justin Herbert, and the Chargers would be wiser to address other areas of need on the roster.