Browns Considering Reunion with Fan Favorite Tight End

David Njoku could return to Cleveland in 2026 as the team looks to bolster its tight end group.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 1:07pm

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a Browns tight end making a catch, the player's form broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color and shape.A cubist interpretation of a Browns tight end's game-changing play captures the dynamic energy of the position.Cleveland Today

The Cleveland Browns are evaluating their tight end position heading into the 2026 season, with the team's current depth chart lacking proven options beyond star Harold Fannin Jr. One potential solution is a reunion with former Browns tight end David Njoku, who is set to hit free agency this offseason. While the Browns are expected to address the position in the upcoming draft, Njoku's familiarity with the team and connection to the fanbase could make him an appealing veteran addition.

Why it matters

The tight end position is a key part of the Browns' offensive scheme under coordinator Todd Monken, so adding a reliable veteran presence alongside the promising Fannin could be crucial for the team's success in 2026. Njoku's return would also energize the Browns' fanbase, known as the Dawg Pound, who have fond memories of the player's previous stint in Cleveland.

The details

The Browns' current tight end depth chart consists of Fannin Jr., Jack Stoll, Blake Whiteheart, Brendan Bates, Sal Cannella, and Caden Prieskorn. Outside of Fannin Jr., the other five players have no guaranteed money on their contracts, making the position a clear area of need. The team could address this in the draft, potentially targeting a player like Kenyon Sadiq or Max Klare, but a veteran free agent signing like Njoku is also a possibility.

  • The Browns will evaluate their tight end position heading into the 2026 season.
  • Njoku is set to become a free agent this offseason.

The players

Harold Fannin Jr.

A promising young tight end who was a standout for the Browns in 2025.

David Njoku

A former Browns tight end who is set to hit free agency and could be a target for a reunion with the team.

Todd Monken

The Browns' offensive coordinator, who heavily utilizes the tight end position in his scheme.

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What they’re saying

“With the way that Todd Monken deploys tight ends and weapons, it is almost guaranteed that Cleveland is going to add another tight end at some point during the remainder of this offseason. The only question is when and where.”

— Anthony Moeglin, Author

What’s next

The Browns will evaluate their options at tight end during the upcoming draft and free agency period, with a potential reunion with David Njoku being a possibility.

The takeaway

The Browns' tight end position is a clear area of need heading into 2026, and the team will have to address it through the draft, free agency, or a combination of both. A reunion with fan favorite David Njoku could be an appealing option that would also energize the Browns' passionate fanbase.