Bengals Should Poach Former Pro Bowler From AFC North Rival in Free Agency

An ideal fit for Cincinnati's offense

Feb. 9, 2026 at 8:55pm

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The Cincinnati Bengals should consider signing former Cleveland Browns tight end David Njoku, a Pro Bowler, when he becomes a free agent next month. Njoku, 30, would provide a versatile and proven pass-catching threat to complement the Bengals' star-studded receiving corps led by Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins.

Why it matters

The Bengals' current tight end group lacks a true difference-maker, with Mike Gesicki more of a wide receiver, Tanner Hudson a special teamer, and Drew Sample and Erick All Jr. unproven as pass-catchers. Njoku would give Burrow another red zone weapon and help offset any potential loss of production if teams focus on taking away Chase and Higgins.

The details

Njoku, a former first-round pick, has recorded at least 58 receptions in three straight seasons, including a career-high 81 catches for 882 yards and 6 touchdowns in 2023 with the Browns. His size, physicality, and pass-catching ability would make him an ideal fit in the Bengals' pass-first offense led by Burrow.

  • Njoku announced he will sign with a new team when free agency opens next month.
  • Njoku, 30, will be entering his 8th NFL season in 2026.

The players

David Njoku

A former Pro Bowl tight end who has spent his entire 7-year NFL career with the Cleveland Browns.

Joe Burrow

The star quarterback of the Cincinnati Bengals, leading one of the NFL's most explosive offenses.

Ja'Marr Chase

An All-Pro wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals, forming a dynamic duo with Tee Higgins.

Tee Higgins

A Pro Bowl wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals, pairing with Ja'Marr Chase to form one of the league's top receiving corps.

Mike Gesicki

A tight end currently under contract with the Cincinnati Bengals, though more of a wide receiver than a traditional in-line tight end.

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What’s next

The Bengals will have to decide whether to pursue Njoku in free agency and how much to offer the veteran tight end to join their explosive offense.

The takeaway

Adding a proven pass-catching tight end like Njoku could take the Bengals' offense to new heights, providing Joe Burrow with another reliable target and helping offset any potential focus by defenses on stopping Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins.