Browns Linked to Standout Stanford TE as Njoku Replacement

Sam Roush could be an ideal complement to Harold Fannin Jr. in Cleveland's offense.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 8:18pm

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The Cleveland Browns are reportedly interested in drafting Stanford tight end Sam Roush as a potential replacement for the departed David Njoku. Roush, a 6-foot-5 senior, is considered one of the best blocking tight ends in the 2026 NFL Draft class and could pair well with the more receiving-oriented Harold Fannin Jr. in the Browns' offense.

Why it matters

The Browns need to find a replacement for Njoku, who was a key part of their passing attack. Roush's strong blocking skills could make him an ideal complement to Fannin and help improve the team's offensive line play.

The details

Last season, Roush caught 49 passes for 545 yards and 2 touchdowns for Stanford. While his receiving production isn't his main strength, Roush is regarded as an elite blocker at the tight end position. Pairing him with the more pass-catching focused Fannin could give the Browns a well-rounded tight end duo to support their quarterback, whether that ends up being Dillon Gabriel, Deshaun Watson, or a rookie from the 2027 class.

  • Roush is a senior at Stanford who is eligible for the 2026 NFL Draft.

The players

Sam Roush

A 6-foot-5 senior tight end at Stanford University who is considered one of the top blocking tight ends in the 2026 NFL Draft class.

Harold Fannin Jr.

A tight end for the Cleveland Browns who is known more for his receiving skills than his blocking ability.

David Njoku

A former tight end for the Cleveland Browns who is no longer with the team.

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What they’re saying

“Stanford's Sam Roush is simultaneously the class's best blocking tight end and an elite athlete. He is the ideal complementary piece alongside Fannin.”

— Brent Sobleski, Bleacher Report Writer

What’s next

The Browns will likely evaluate Roush and other tight end prospects closely leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft as they look to find a suitable replacement for David Njoku.

The takeaway

By targeting a well-rounded tight end like Sam Roush, the Browns can build a dynamic tight end duo with Harold Fannin Jr. that can both block effectively and contribute in the passing game, helping to improve the team's overall offensive production.