- David Njoku
- #85
- Team CLE
- Pos TE
- Status AActive
- Owner FA
-
Has renewed life with Cleveland
Njoku's chances of remaining with the Browns in 2020 improved after the organization parted ways with head coach Freddie Kitchens following the Week 17 loss to the Bengals, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.
Analysis: The tight end admitted he had "a couple differences" with Kitchens, who made Njoku a healthy inactive for Weeks 15 and 16 before the 23-year-old played just four of the Browns' 54 offensive snaps in the season finale. Njoku also missed 10 games with a wrist issue earlier in the season before being designated to return from injured reserve. When Njoku eventually returned to action Week 14 against the Bengals, he had a ball taken away from him on a play that was ruled as an interception. That…read more
Published: Wed, Jan 1 at 11:08am by Rotowire.com
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Limited playing time
Njoku played four offensive snaps in Sunday's 33-23 loss to the Bengals in Week 17.
Analysis: Njoku was back on the active roster after being a healthy inactive the previous two weeks, but (now former) head coach Freddie Kitchens limited his exposure. With Kitchens no longer around, perhaps there is a path for Njoku to reclaim the starting tight end job. Cleveland never had a reliable third receiving option in 2019 beyond Jarvis Landry and Odell Beckham, so Njoku could fill a need in 2020. The 23-year-old tight end has one year left on the four-year deal he signed after the Browns…read more
Published: Mon, Dec 30 at 4:34pm by Rotowire.com
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Back from doghouse
Njoku is listed as active Week 17 against Cincinnati.
Analysis: Njoku is undoubtedly disappointed in how this season ended, as he rehabbed from a wrist injury for 11 weeks only to make a limited return Week 14 and end up a healthy scratch for the two games after that. He'll get a chance to end his season on a high note in the finale, though Njoku will be part of a position group that includes Demetrius Harris and Ricky Seals-Jones, the latter which overcame an illness to suit up this week.
Published: Sun, Dec 29 at 8:39am by Rotowire.com
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No word on Week 17 status
Cleveland head coach Freddie Kitchens was non-committal about Njoku's status for Week 17 against the Bengals, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.
Analysis: Kitchens, who benched Njoku for each of the previous two games, responded in coach-speak when asked about the tight end's status for the season finale Sunday at 1:00 PM. "We're going to play the people I think gives us the best chance to win each week," Kitchens said. "Depending on what that is, we'll see how it goes Sunday." If Njoku doesn't dress, Demetrius Harris is expected to be the team's lead tight end.
Published: Sat, Dec 28 at 6:24am by Rotowire.com
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Scratched yet again
Njoku is on the inactive list for the second consecutive week in advance of Sunday's matchup against Baltimore.
Analysis: Njoku will wind up a healthy scratch after not appearing on the injury report, giving way to Demetrius Harris at tight end in his stead. He logged 21 snaps in his return from the IR in Week 14, but he has now sat in back-to-back weeks. It's unclear what role, if any, Njoku will have when the Browns head to Cincinnati to finish the regular season next week.
Published: Sun, Dec 22 at 8:37am by Rotowire.com
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Responding well to scratch
Browns offensive coordinator Todd Monken said that Njoku has "responded well" after being a healthy scratch Week 15, Marla Ridenour of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.
Analysis: Both Monken and head coach Freddie Kitchens acknowledged Njoku's improved attitude, but neither coach discussed the tight end's status for Sunday's home meeting with the 12-2 Ravens. Njoku had a promising start to the season with a touchdown, four catches and six targets in the season opener before sustaining a Week 2 injury that forced him to miss 11 games.
Published: Fri, Dec 20 at 4:48am by Rotowire.com
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Inactive Sunday
Njoku (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Cardinals.
Analysis: Per Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal, Njoku's deactivation Sunday is a coach's decision. In his absence, Demetrius Harris is slated to start at tight end for the Browns in Week 15.
Published: Sun, Dec 15 at 11:43am by Rotowire.com
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Returns to full practice
Njoku (knee) returned to a full practice Thursday, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.
Analysis: Njoku is thus on track to play Sunday against the Cardinals. The tight end didn't make much of a mark (one catch for four yards) in his return to action from a wrist injury in Week 14, but he's at least in a decent position to bounce back this weekend, given Arizona's struggles containing tight ends this season.
Published: Thu, Dec 12 at 1:58pm by Rotowire.com
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Limited by knee issue
Njoku was limited at practice Wednesday due to a knee issue, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.
Analysis: In his return to action from a wrist injury in the Week 14 win over the Bengals, Njoku played 20 out of the Browns' 54 offensive snaps, catching one of his three targets for a four-yard gain. Now the tight end is contending with a new injury, but at this stage it's unknown whether he's dealing with something minor or managing an issue that cropped up at practice Wednesday.
Published: Wed, Dec 11 at 2:25pm by Rotowire.com
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Light impact in return
Njoku caught one of three targets for four yards in Sunday's 27-19 win over the Bengals.
Analysis: The tight end returned from the injured reserve list Sunday, playing for the first time since Week 2. The rust showed on the Browns' first series when a pass he appeared to catch was wrestled away from him and ruled an interception by Cincinnati linebacker Nick Vigil. He also allowed a sack in pass protection, getting beaten by defensive end Carl Larson. Njoku received the most targets of Cleveland's tight ends, including a red-zone target in the third quarter, while playing 21 snaps, second…read more
Published: Mon, Dec 9 at 3:32am by Rotowire.com
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Draws start in return
Njoku will start at tight end for the Browns in their Week 14 matchup against the Bengals.
Analysis: Njoku has seen just 76 total snaps this season, as he's been sidelined since Week 2 against the Jets due to a broken wrist. The third-year player was activated from IR on Saturday, however, and Cleveland will waste no time getting him back into action. Njoku has favorable fantasy matchups both this week and next, but it's unclear if there will be any rust to shake off after this much time on the sidelines. Working in his favor against the Bengals is the fact that fellow tight end Demetrius…read more
Published: Sun, Dec 8 at 8:45am by Rotowire.com
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Activated off injured reserve
Njoku (wrist) was activated from injured reserve Saturday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
Analysis: Njoku's return from injured reserve couldn't have come at a better time, as the Browns face both the Bengals and Cardinals --- the latter of which could go down as one of the historically worst teams at covering tight ends --- in consecutive weeks. The 23-year-old isn't expected to be limited either, as Njoku was reportedly doing well in terms of conditioning weeks before Saturday's roster decision. It's pretty clear the third-year pro will immediately jump to the top of the depth chart, with…read more
Published: Sat, Dec 7 at 9:51am by Rotowire.com
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In line to play Week 14
Njoku (wrist) said he expects to be activated from injured reserve ahead of Sunday's game against the Bengals, Jake Trotter of ESPN.com reports. "[The coaching staff] told me, that's the plan," Njoku said after Friday's practice.
Analysis: Though he noted earlier Friday that Njoku was "healthy and ready to go" after missing the Browns' past 10 games, coach Freddie Kitchens was unwilling to commit to the tight end suiting up this weekend. Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reported shortly thereafter that the Browns do intend to bring Njoku back from IR, and the 23-year-old's own comments seem to support that. Because Njoku isn't returning from any sort of lower-body injury that would normally result in a player being eased back into…read more
Published: Fri, Dec 6 at 10:22am by Rotowire.com
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Could be active Sunday
Coach Freddie Kitchens said Friday that Njoku (wrist) is "healthy and ready to go," but the Browns haven't decided whether to activate him from injured reserve ahead of this weekend's game against the Bengals, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.
Analysis: A final decision on Njoku's Week 14 status should come before Saturday at 4 p.m. ET, the deadline for teams to activate players designated to return from injured reserve ahead of Sunday games. Njoku has been taking full contact since he resumed practicing Nov. 20, but the Browns would have the luxury of waiting until Dec. 11 to activate him if they don't feel he's quite ready to play against Cincinnati. Whenever he's reinstated, Njoku will likely take over as the team's clear No. 1 tight end,…read more
Published: Fri, Dec 6 at 9:55am by Rotowire.com
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Making progress
Coach Freddie Kitchens said Wednesday that Njoku (wrist) is "getting closer" to rejoining the active roster, Andrew Gribble of the Browns' official site reports.
Analysis: Njoku would be eligible to play Sunday against the Bengals if activated from injured reserve, but the Browns have until Dec. 11 to make a decision on his reinstatement. The Browns will presumably observe Njoku in practices Wednesday through Friday before deciding as late as Saturday whether he's fit to play in Week 14. If Njoku remains out this weekend, Demetrius Harris (shoulder) and Ricky Seals-Jones would handle the bulk of the snaps at tight end.
Published: Wed, Dec 4 at 1:55pm by Rotowire.com
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Not activated yet
Njoku (wrist) will not be activated ahead of Sunday's contest against the Steelers, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.
Analysis: The wait continues for Njoku, who returned to practice Nov. 20 after breaking his wrist in Week 2, thus landing on injured reserve. The Browns have until Dec. 11 to activate their star tight end or shut him down for the rest of the season, so there's still time for Njoku to find his way onto the field. Demetrius Harris will start Week 13 against the Steelers.
Published: Sat, Nov 30 at 12:26pm by Rotowire.com
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No decision yet on Week 13 status
Coach Freddie Kitchens said Friday that the Browns have yet to decide whether Njoku (wrist) will be activated from injured reserve prior to Sunday's matchup with the Steelers, Andrew Gribble of the Browns' official site reports.
Analysis: Njoku returned to practice Nov. 20 and reportedly took full contact that same day, but the Browns have yet to confirm that the tight end has completely moved past the fractured wrist he sustained Week 2. Though Kitchens remains mum on Njoku's status for Week 13, the Browns could still wait until Saturday to add the tight end back to the 53-man roster. If the Browns determine Njoku isn't fit to play this week, the team would have until Dec. 11 to activate him or shut him down for the remainder…read more
Published: Fri, Nov 29 at 11:11am by Rotowire.com
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Status TBD for Week 13
Coach Freddie Kitchens hasn't made a decision on the status of Njoku (wrist) for Sunday's game in Pittsburgh, Andrew Gribble of the Browns' official site reports. "We will just have to see," Kitchens said Monday. "It is a day-to-day kind of thing."
Analysis: Njoku returned to practice last Wednesday, but his ensuing activity wasn't enough for the Browns to elevate him to the 53-man roster for Sunday's visit to Miami. He'll have a few more chances to prove he's healthy this week, but Kitchens also noted "our tight ends have been doing a pretty good job." Until Njoku returns to action, Demetrius Harris will be the Browns' primary TE, with Ricky Seals-Jones, Pharaoh Brown and Stephen Carlson mixing in behind Harris in some combination.
Published: Mon, Nov 25 at 5:02pm by Rotowire.com
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Won't play this week
Njoku (wrist) won't be activated off IR for Sunday's game against the Dolphins, Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram reports.
Analysis: Njoku, who's been out due to a wrist injury that he suffered in Week 2, returned to practice Wednesday, but the Browns will elect to give the tight end another week to ready himself for the team's Dec. 1 game against the Steelers. Upon his return, Njoku should reclaim his status as Cleveland's top pass-catching threat at his position, a context that gives the 2017 first-rounder some stretch-run fantasy value.
Published: Fri, Nov 22 at 10:24am by Rotowire.com
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Not expected back in Week 12
The Browns aren't expected to reinstate Njoku (wrist) from injured reserve ahead of Sunday's game against the Dolphins, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Though Njoku was cleared for full contact Wednesday in his first practice with the team since Week 2, the Browns reportedly intend to bring him along slowly as he returns from a broken wrist. Unless Njoku shows less rust than anticipated in his practice sessions Thursday and Friday, he'll remain on IR for another week before potentially rejoining the 53-man roster ahead of the Week 13 matchup with Pittsburgh. Expect Cleveland to continue with a four-man committee at tight end versus the…read more
Published: Thu, Nov 21 at 9:51am by Rotowire.com
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Feels ready to play
Njoku (wrist) said that he feels healthy enough to play Sunday against the Dolphins, Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram reports.
Analysis: The Browns officially designated Njoku as one of two players eligible to return from injured reserve Wednesday, with the tight end reportedly putting in a full-contact practice in the team's first session of Week 12. Since Njoku remains on IR, the Browns don't yet list him on their injury report, but more news on his potential availability for the weekend should trickle in when coach Freddie Kitchens speaks to the media Thursday and Friday. If Njoku is activated this week, he would likely…read more
Published: Wed, Nov 20 at 11:37am by Rotowire.com
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Cleared for contact
Njoku (wrist) was cleared for full contact in his return to practice Wednesday, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.
Analysis: The Browns designated Njoku as one of their two players that can return from injured reserve. The tight end is eligible to be activated as soon as Sunday's game against Miami, and his immediate clearance for contact suggests he has a decent shot to play. The Browns have deployed a rotation at tight end ever since Njoku broke his wrist in mid-September, with Ricky Seals-Jones, Demetrius Harris, Pharaoh Brown and Stephen Carlson combining for 21 receptions, 278 yards and five touchdowns on 31…read more
Published: Wed, Nov 20 at 7:57am by Rotowire.com
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Designated to return from IR
Njoku (wrist) was officially designated to return from injured reserve Wednesday after making a return to practice, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.
Analysis: Njoku broke his wrist Week 2 and now has met the minimum IR requirement of eight missed games. He's eligible to be reinstated to the 53-man roster ahead of Sunday's matchup with Miami, but the Browns will first want to monitor his progress in practice. The team has been using a rotation at tight end since mid-September, with Ricky Seals-Jones, Demetrius Harris, Pharaoh Brown and Stephen Carlson combining for 21 receptions, 278 yards and five touchdowns on 31 targets over the past eight games.…read more
Published: Wed, Nov 20 at 7:00am by Rotowire.com
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Likely to practice Wednesday
Coach Freddie Kitchens said he expects Njoku (wrist) to resume practicing with the team Wednesday, Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram reports.
Analysis: Njoku wasn't on the field Monday for the Browns' workout, but the team is optimistic he'll be able to ramp up his activity as the week rolls along. Assuming Njoku does return to practice Wednesday, Cleveland would then have up to 21 days to evaluate the tight end for a return from injured reserve. Njoku is eligible to be reinstated to the 53-man roster ahead of Sunday's game against the Dolphins, but his potential availability for that contest likely will hinge on how he looks in practice this…read more
Published: Mon, Nov 18 at 10:26am by Rotowire.com
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Remains sidelined
Njoku (wrist) was not at practice Monday, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.
Analysis: The tight end is eligible to be activated off IR in advance of Sunday's game against the Dolphins, but given that he hasn't returned to practice at this stage, Njoku's timetable for a return to game action remains unclear as the Browns' Week 12 preparations commence.
Published: Mon, Nov 18 at 7:59am by Rotowire.com
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Cast removed
Njoku had the cast removed from his broken wrist, suffered in a Week 2 win over the Jets, George M. Thomas and Marla Ridenour of the Akron Beacon Journal report.
Analysis: Njoku, who is on injured reserve, is optimistic he'll be back this season. The earliest he can return is Week 12, a Nov. 24 game against the Dolphins. With injuries mounting for the Browns at tight end -- Pharaoh Brown is in the concussion protocol and Ricky Seals-Jones left Sunday's contest with a knee injury -- designating Njoku as one of the team's IR returnees seems likely.
Published: Tue, Nov 5 at 3:58am by Rotowire.com
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Cleared of concussion
Njoku said Thursday that he's cleared the NFL's concussion protocol and has turned his focus exclusively to rehabbing his fractured wrist, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.
Analysis: Njoku sustained the two injuries on a hard hit from the Jets' Nate Hairston on Sept. 16, resulting in his placement on injured reserve four days later. The tight end was able to avoid surgery to address the wrist issue, keeping hope alive for him to return later this season if he hits no unexpected snags in his rehab. The Browns won't be able to bring him back from IR until at least their Nov. 24 game against the Dolphins in Week 12.
Published: Thu, Oct 3 at 11:31am by Rotowire.com
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Avoids surgery on wrist
Njoku (concussion) won't have surgery on his broken wrist, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.
Analysis: If Njoku had elected to undergo surgery, he'd be unlikely to return at any point this season. However, it's now apparent that won't be the case, which gives the tight end a chance to return by Week 12, at the earliest. In the meantime, Demetrius Harris will likely serve as Cleveland's top tight end.
Published: Tue, Sep 24 at 3:44pm by Rotowire.com
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Week 12 return is best-case scenario
With Njoku (wrist) having been placed on IR on Friday, the first game he'd be eligible to play in would be Nov. 24 against the Dolphins, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.
Analysis: It remains to be seen if the tight end will need wrist surgery, with Ulrich suggestion that option is still being considered, while Ian Rapoport of NFL Network has indicated that the tight end will avoid a procedure. For now, it seems like Njoku is a candidate to come back later this season, but those inclined to stash him on fantasy rosters must know that a Week 12 return represents the best-case scenario for the 2017 first-rounder.
Published: Fri, Sep 20 at 3:39pm by Rotowire.com
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Lands on IR
The Browns have placed Njoku (wrist) on IR, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.
Analysis: With Njoku having suffered a broken wrist, the Browns will send the tight end to IR, meaning that he must miss at least eight games before a potential designated-to-return scenario can come into play. In his absence, the team's tight end corps will feature Demetrius Harris, Pharaoh Brown and Ricky Seals-Jones.
Published: Fri, Sep 20 at 2:05pm by Rotowire.com
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Suffers broken wrist
Njoku suffered a broken wrist Monday night against the Jets, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.
Analysis: As a result, the tight end is expected to miss at least a month, and possibly more if he needs surgery. Next up for the team's tight end looks while Njoku is out are Demetrius Harris, Pharaoh Brown and Ricky Seals-Jones.
Published: Wed, Sep 18 at 3:36pm by Rotowire.com
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May need wrist surgery
Njoku, who is dealing with a concussion, also suffered a wrist injury Monday night against the Jets, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
Analysis: Per the report, Njoku is seeking additional medical opinions at this stage, but he may need to undergo surgery to address the issue. His status for Sunday's game against the Rams, at a minimum, is thus cloudy. Next up for the team's tight end looks in the event that Njoku misses time are Demetrius Harris, Pharaoh Brown and Ricky Seals-Jones.
Published: Wed, Sep 18 at 3:16pm by Rotowire.com
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Recovering from concussion
Njoku (concussion) isn't practicing Wednesday, Pat McManamon of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: This was a foregone conclusion after the tight end suffered a concussion early in Monday's 23-3 win over the Jets. If Njoku can't clear the protocol ahead of Sunday's game against Los Angeles, the Browns would turn to Demetrius Harris as their top tight end.
Published: Wed, Sep 18 at 8:49am by Rotowire.com
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Out rest of Monday
Njoku has been ruled out for the remainder of Monday's game against the Jets with a concussion, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.
Analysis: Demetrius Harris, Pharaoh Brown and Ricky Seals-Jones are slated to fill in for Njoku at tight end. The former first-round pick will need to clear the concussion protocol in order to play against the Rams in Week 3.
Published: Mon, Sep 16 at 6:11pm by Rotowire.com
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Being evaluated for concussion
Njoku is questionable to return to Monday's game against the Jets while being evaluated for a concussion,
Analysis: Njoku took a hard fall in the first quarter and appeared to be shaken up. If he is unable to return to Monday's game, look for some combination of Demetrius Harris, Pharaoh Brown and Ricky Seals-Jones to step in for the Browns at tight end.
Published: Mon, Sep 16 at 6:01pm by Rotowire.com
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Headed to locker room
Njoku entered the locker room with medical staff during the first quarter of Monday's game against the Jets, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.
Analysis: Njoku attempted to make a catch on the Browns' second drive and was upended, resulting in an awkward fall on his head and neck. Demetrius Harris, Pharaoh Brown and Ricky Seals-Jones are slotted to compensate for Njoku's absence as long as he is out.
Published: Mon, Sep 16 at 5:49pm by Rotowire.com
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Finds paydirt in Week 1 loss
Njoku caught four of six targets for 37 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 43-13 loss to the Titans.
Analysis: Njoku scored a three-yard touchdown in the third quarter to cap one of two successful Browns drives in an otherwise ugly performance from the home team. After scoring four touchdowns in each of his first two NFL seasons, Njoku is hoping to establish himself as a greater threat near the goal line with opposing defenses also needing to focus on Odell Beckham, Nick Chubb and Jarvis Landry. The tight end will hope to build on this trip to the end zone in Week 2 against the Jets.
Published: Sun, Sep 8 at 2:22pm by Rotowire.com
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Takes part in team drills
Njoku (knee) participated in team drills Monday, Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram reports.
Analysis: Additionally, Njoku was able to don his helmet Monday, a sign that the stitches on the back of his head are no longer an issue. Njoku, along with Cleveland's other key skill players, is presumably on track to sit out the team's preseason finale, but the tight end now has ample time to prepare for Week 1. The 2017 first-rounder is set to serve as the Browns' top tight end and will look to build off the 56-639-4 stat line he logged in 2018. With ascending QB Baker Mayfield throwing to him, Njoku…read more
Published: Mon, Aug 26 at 11:01am by Rotowire.com
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Still can't wear helmet
Njoku (knee/head) still wasn't wearing a helmet in pregame warmups against the Buccaneers on Friday, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.
Analysis: Njoku has been unable to wear a helmet this week due to stitches on the back of his head, and that's still the case here, which means he won't be able to participate in this third preseason tilt. On the bright side, his ability to participate in warmups suggests the tight end's knee injury is no longer much of a factor.
Published: Fri, Aug 23 at 4:04pm by Rotowire.com
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Limited practice Monday
Coach Freddie Kitchens relayed that Njoku (knee) didn't have a helmet at Monday's practice because of stitches on the back of his head, Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram reports.
Analysis: Meanwhile, Njoku was able to do individual drills Monday, with the report adding that the tight end's knee is feeling better. There's been nothing to suggest that Njoku's Week 1 status is in any danger, but his availability for Friday's preseason game against the Bucs has yet to be clarified.
Published: Mon, Aug 19 at 10:45am by Rotowire.com
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Returns to individual work
Njoku (knee) is going through individual drills Monday without a helmet, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.
Analysis: He may not be ready for full participation, but this at least shows that Njoku is making progress. He was held out of Saturday's preseason win over Indianapolis and could miss another exhibition Friday against Tampa Bay. The 23-year-old is locked in as a starter, with offseason acquisition Demetrius Harris expected to occupy the No. 2 spot at tight end.
Published: Mon, Aug 19 at 8:17am by Rotowire.com
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Misses game with knee injury
Njoku (knee) didn't play in Saturday's preseason game against Indianapolis.
Analysis: Njoku got the start in Cleveland's preseason opener, playing seven snaps without any targets. There hasn't been any indication that the knee injury holding him out of practice poses a threat to his Week 1 availability.
Published: Sun, Aug 18 at 11:40am by Rotowire.com
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Absence blamed on knee issue
Njoku was held out of Monday's practice with a knee injury, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.
Analysis: The injury doesn't appear serious at first glance, considering Njoku was able to work out on a side field with injured teammates. He started last week's preseason game against Washington, finishing without a target on seven snaps.
Published: Mon, Aug 12 at 11:28am by Rotowire.com
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Spotted on rehab field
Njoku (undisclosed) is working on a side field with the rehab group at Monday's practice, Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram reports.
Analysis: This is the first report of any injury for Cleveland's starting tight end. The team has been shorthanded at the position, with Demetrius Harris and Seth DeValve both recovering from concussions during the early portion of training camp, so a lengthy absence by Njoku could have the Browns scrounging through the free-agent pool for depth.
Published: Mon, Aug 12 at 7:18am by Rotowire.com
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Captures QB's attention
Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield has high hopes for Njoku in 2019, Steve Doerschuk of The Canton Repository reports. "The sky is the limit for [Njoku]," said Mayfield. "He hasn't had a lot of coaching and hasn't been playing that long. You can see how athletic he is, how talented."
Analysis: There's no shortage of target competition in Cleveland, but the wealth of talent should also create more touchdowns to go around compared to Njoku's first two seasons in the league. The 2017 first-round pick took a step forward in terms of efficiency after the team fired Hue Jackson and Todd Haley last season, catching 25 of 37 targets for 342 yards (9.2) and two touchdowns over the final eight games. Njoku had fewer yards (297) on more targets (51) in his first eight games, though part of the…read more
Published: Fri, Jul 26 at 12:32pm by Rotowire.com
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Ready to battle for targets
Njoku acknowledged there will be more competition for targets with Odell Beckham joining the Browns, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports. "It's competition," Njoku said Wednesday. "Whoever's open gets the ball. We're a team, so we've got to see it as such. But at the at end of the day, we've got to compete."
Analysis: Beckham and backup tight end Demetrius Harris will join a roster with five holdovers -- Njoku, Duke Johnson, Jarvis Landry, Antonio Callaway and Rashard Higgins -- that caught 39 or more passes for the Browns last season. Add in running backs Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt (suspension) and it's impossible to find another team with comparable depth at the skill positions. It will be tough for Njoku to take a big step forward from last year's mark of 88 targets (5.5 per game), but the situation is at…read more
Published: Fri, Mar 15 at 7:47am by Rotowire.com
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Seven targets in finale
Njoku caught three of seven targets for 62 yards in Sunday's 26-24 finale loss to the Ravens.
Analysis: Njoku finishes the 2018 season with 56 receptions for 639 yards to go along with four touchdowns. While those numbers are an improvement from his rookie season, the Miami Hurricane product dealt with inconsistency through much of the season and never was the red-zone threat many expected him to be. With that being said, he still possesses the talent to be a top-tier tight end in the league, and an entire offseason to work with Baker Mayfield should strengthen the duo's rapport.
Published: Fri, Jan 4 at 3:42pm by Rotowire.com
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Practices fully
Njoku (knee) turned in a full practice Thursday, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.
Analysis: The unrestricted practice clears the way for Njoku to play in Sunday's season finale against the Ravens. In the Browns' previous matchup with Baltimore in Week 5, Njoku drew double-digit targets for one of two times all season, parlaying his 10 looks into six receptions for 69 yards.
Published: Thu, Dec 27 at 2:14pm by Rotowire.com
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Starts another week limited
Njoku (knee) was a limited practice participant Wednesday, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.
Analysis: Njoku has been playing through the same knee injury for weeks, typically upgrading to full participation Thursdays or Fridays. A Week 17 matchup in Baltimore won't be easy for Baker Mayfield and the Browns offense, but the Ravens haven't done a great job against tight ends, allowing 60 yards per game and 8.3 yards per target. By comparison, they've limited wide receivers to 6.4 YPT and running backs to 4.2.
Published: Wed, Dec 26 at 10:27am by Rotowire.com
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Blows up against Bengals
Njoku caught three of four targets, compiling 73 receiving yards during Sunday's 26-18 win against the Bengals.
Analysis: The 6-foot-4 tight tight end exploded for a season-high 73 receiving yards against Cincinnati, also collecting his fourth touchdown of 2018 as the Browns picked up a third straight victory. (Two of his four scores this year have come against the Bengals.) He's been a boom-bust play yardage-wise over the latter half of the season, exceeding 30 receiving yards in five of his past eight appearances, but averaging 8.7 yards per game in the other three outings during that span. Njoku carries a…read more
Published: Sun, Dec 23 at 4:14pm by Rotowire.com
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Returns to full practice
Njoku (knee/thigh) practiced fully Thursday, Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram reports.
Analysis: Njoku is thus in line to play Sunday against the Bengals. The 2017 first-rounder has caught three passes in each of his last three outings, but his last notable fantasy outing came against Cincinnati in the game before that, when Njoku hauled in all five of his targets for 63 yards and a TD.
Published: Thu, Dec 20 at 1:18pm by Rotowire.com
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Limited to start week
Njoku (knee/thigh) was a limited practice participant Wednesday, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.
Analysis: A fixture on the injury report this season, Njoku hasn't actually come close to missing a game. After landing between four and six targets each of the past four games, he draws a Week 16 matchup with a soft Bengals defense that has allowed tight ends to catch 73 of 97 passes for 839 yards (8.6 yards per target) and eight touchdowns. An upgrade to full practice participation Thursday and/or Friday would answer any questions about Njoku's status.
Published: Wed, Dec 19 at 12:25pm by Rotowire.com
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Five targets in win
Njoku caught three passes (five targets) for 30 yards in Sunday's 17-16 win over the Broncos.
Analysis: Njoku's streak of disappointing games continued against the Broncos with yet another subpar performance. The tight end has produced 35 or fewer receiving yards in four of his last five contests, as his rapport with quarterback Baker Mayfield has been anything but reliable. He'll look to get back on track against a favorable matchup in the Bengals on Sunday.
Published: Mon, Dec 17 at 6:12pm by Rotowire.com
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Quiet once more
Njoku caught three of four targets for 35 yards in Sunday's 26-20 win over the Panthers.
Analysis: Njoku turned in another disappointing effort despite facing a Carolina defense that's been generous to tight ends this season. The second-year man out of Miami has faded when it matters most for fantasy owners, recording 35 yards or fewer in three of the past four games.
Published: Sun, Dec 9 at 2:33pm by Rotowire.com
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Cleared for Week 14
Njoku (knee) practiced fully Friday and doesn't carry an injury designation into Sunday's game against the Panthers, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.
Analysis: Since he was able to practice in limited fashion on back-to-back days to open the Browns' Week 14 preparations, Njoku never seemed in major jeopardy of missing game action. Njoku's fantasy value peaked when he earned double-digit targets in both Weeks 5 and 6, but he's earned no more than six looks in any of the Browns' subsequent six contests.
Published: Fri, Dec 7 at 11:57am by Rotowire.com
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Logs limited practice
Njoku (knee) was limited at practice Wednesday, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.
Analysis: Njoku, who caught three of six targets for eight yards in the Week 13 loss to the Texans, has been up and down over his last six outings. With the knee issue not viewed as much of a concern, Njoku's chances of a bouncing back this weekend are supported by the fact that Sunday's opponent, the Panthers, have had trouble limiting tight ends this season.
Published: Wed, Dec 5 at 1:13pm by Rotowire.com
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Production slowing
Njoku was held to three catches for eight yards on six targets in Sunday's 29-13 loss to Houston.
Analysis: Eight of Njoku's teammates finished with more receiving yards than him, as quarterback Baker Mayfield threw for a career-high 397 yards despite the tight end's struggles. After a streak of five consecutive games over 50 receiving yards, Njoku has now come up short of 20 yards twice in his past three appearances. Those recent struggles leave owners with some difficult decisions to make at the tight end position with the fantasy playoffs right around the corner, though Njoku will benefit from a…read more
Published: Sun, Dec 2 at 2:37pm by Rotowire.com
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Cleared to play Sunday
Njoku (knee) doesn't carry an injury designation into Sunday's game against the Texans after practicing fully Friday.
Analysis: Njoku has been a hit-or-miss fantasy option of late, but he is coming off a solid effort in the Week 12 win over the Bengals, during which he hauled in all five of his targets for 63 yards and a touchdown. The Texans are riding an eight-game winning streak, but working in Njoku's favor is that Houston has had a hard time stopping opposing tight ends over its last three outings.
Published: Fri, Nov 30 at 2:59pm by Rotowire.com
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Limited again Thursday
Njoku (knee) was a limited participant in Thursday's practice.
Analysis: The knee issue has resulted in Njoku carrying questionable designations into the Browns' past two games, but he's ultimately suited up on both occasions, reeling in all six of his targets over that span for 81 yards and a touchdown. The back-to-back limited practices to begin Week 13 suggest Njoku's knee is still an issue on some level, but he would likely be held out entirely if there was truly any concern about his availability for Sunday's matchup with the Texans. That said, Njoku may need…read more
Published: Thu, Nov 29 at 2:29pm by Rotowire.com
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Limited by knee issue
Njoku (knee) was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.
Analysis: The knee issue has resulted in Njoku being listed as questionable ahead of the Browns' past two games, but he's suited up on both occasions while playing normal snap counts. In the Browns' Week 12 triumph over the Bengals, Njoku bounced back from a three-game scoring drought with five receptions for 63 yards and a touchdown on five targets. The fact that he's beginning the Browns' Week 13 preparations on the field in any capacity suggests the injury won't put his status in much jeopardy for…read more
Published: Wed, Nov 28 at 11:23am by Rotowire.com
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Finds end zone in win
Njoku (knee) caught all five of his targets for 63 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 35-20 win over the Bengals.
Analysis: Njoku scored from six yards out on a wild play, as he attempted to hurdle a defender, got stuffed, but somehow managed to stay on his feet before getting pushed into the end zone. Cleveland's passing game powered down after the team took a 28-0 lead, so Njoku finished as the Browns' leading receiver, nudging out Antonio Callaway by one yard. The athletic tight end looks to be over the injury issues that had been slowing him down recently, so Njoku's stock is trending up ahead of a Week 13…read more
Published: Sun, Nov 25 at 2:23pm by Rotowire.com
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Listed as active Sunday
Njoku (knee) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Bengals.
Analysis: Njoku has been a hit-or-miss fantasy option of late, but he's a bounce-back candidate in Week 12 versus a Cincinnati defense that overall hasn't had great success containing tight ends.
Published: Sun, Nov 25 at 8:44am by Rotowire.com
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Listed as questionable
Njoku (knee) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Bengals, Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram reports.
Analysis: Njoku, who practiced in a limited fashion to start the week, graduated to a full practice Friday, suggesting that he's trending in the right direction. That said, given that Njoku is one of just two Cleveland players on the team's Week 12 injury report, the tight end's status is worth tracking in advance of Sunday's 1:00 ET kickoff. Assuming he's plays this weekend, Njoku profiles as a bounce-back candidate while taking aim at a Cincinnati defense that tight ends have found a decent level of…read more
Published: Fri, Nov 23 at 12:04pm by Rotowire.com
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Logs limited practice
Njoku (knee) was limited at practice Wednesday, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.
Analysis: Following the Browns' bye week, Njoku is no longer nursing a rib injury, but he continues to manage a knee issue that hasn't caused him to miss any games. Njoku has cooled off of late, but he's a bounce-back candidate in Week 12 versus a Cincinnati defense that tight ends have found a degree of success against this season.
Published: Wed, Nov 21 at 10:40am by Rotowire.com
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Limited to one catch
Njoku (knee/ribs) caught his lone target for 18 yards in Sunday's 28-16 win over the Falcons.
Analysis: While the tight end was clearly limited by his injuries, his team still managed to pull out a surprising win, much to the delight of the home crowd. Njoku will get a much-needed opportunity to heal with Cleveland on bye in Week 11.
Published: Sun, Nov 11 at 2:14pm by Rotowire.com
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Set to play Week 10
Njoku (knee/ribs) is active Sunday against the Falcons.
Analysis: Njoku was a limited participant in practice all week due to multiple injuries, but the expectation was that he'd suit up. The Cleveland inactive list will confirm that, lining up Njoku to take on an Atlanta defense that has given up just three touchdowns to opposing tight ends on the year.
Published: Sun, Nov 11 at 8:38am by Rotowire.com
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On track to play Sunday
Njoku (knee/ribs) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Falcons but is expected to play, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
Analysis: The two injuries limited Njoku's participation in practice throughout the week, but he should be good to go versus Atlanta if he makes it through pregame warmups without incident. Confirmation on Njoku's status should come Sunday around 11:30 a.m. EST, when the Browns are expected to release their inactive list approximately 90 minutes before kickoff.
Published: Sat, Nov 10 at 8:55pm by Rotowire.com
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Listed as questionable this week
Njoku (knee/ribs) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Falcons after practicing in a limited fashion all week.
Analysis: That Njoku practiced all week -- albeit in a limited capacity -- bodes well for his chances of suiting up Sunday. That said, those inclined to use him in Week 10 fantasy lineups will want to verify his status as the Browns' 1:00 PM ET kickoff approaches. If active, Njoku would be in line to remain a key cog in the Browns' Week 10 passing attack, after hauling in four of his five targets for 53 yards in the team's 37-21 loss to the Chiefs in Week 9.
Published: Fri, Nov 9 at 12:25pm by Rotowire.com
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Remains limited at practice
Njoku (knee/ribs) remained limited at Thursday's practice, Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.
Analysis: We'll have to see if the Browns list Njoku as questionable for Sunday's game against the Falcons, or if he approaches that game without an injury designation. If he is able to suit up, the tight end should remain a key cog in the Cleveland offense in Week 10, on the heels of catching four of his five targets for 53 yards in last weekend's 37-21 loss to the Chiefs.
Published: Thu, Nov 8 at 1:46pm by Rotowire.com
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Limited with knee and rib injuries
Njoku (knee/ribs) was a limited participant at Wednesday's practice.
Analysis: This marks the third straight week Njoku has been limited on a Wednesday, but he's yet to miss a game or see his snaps reduced. Any form of participation Thursday would keep him on track to play in Sunday's game against Atlanta.
Published: Wed, Nov 7 at 10:47am by Rotowire.com
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Four catches Sunday
Njoku secured four of five targets for 53 yards during Sunday's 37-21 loss to the Chiefs.
Analysis: Njoku was able to bounce back against the Chiefs after a Week 8 performance that ended with zero receptions, though he finished tied for fourth on the team in targets. The second-year tight end has 35 catches for 350 yards and two touchdowns on the season, but has yet to eclipse 70 yards in a single game, and if Duke Johnson -- who led the team in targets, catches and yards -- continues to be Baker Mayfield's favorite pass catcher in Cleveland's new offense, Njoku's value could ultimately…read more
Published: Mon, Nov 5 at 4:30pm by Rotowire.com
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Avoids designation for Week 9
Njoku (knee) doesn't carry an injury designation into Sunday's game against the Chiefs.
Analysis: Njoku followed limited practice sessions Wednesday and Thursday with a full one Friday, which allowed him to avoid a questionable tag heading into the weekend. The tight end draws a favorable matchup against a weak Chiefs secondary, which should aid his chances of bouncing back from an out-of-nowhere zero-target outing against Pittsburgh in Week 8.
Published: Fri, Nov 2 at 12:56pm by Rotowire.com
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