David Njoku‘s free agent spell has lasted well into the offseason. With the draft now complete, though, he is among the veterans positioned to find a new home shortly.
Njoku has arranged a visit with the Chargers, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports. He adds it will take place on Monday. Njoku is among the most accomplished tight ends still on the market as teams around the league begin their spring practice programs.
A first-round pick of the Browns in 2017, Njoku was held in high regard by the team throughout his Cleveland tenure. Expectations did not always match production in his case, but he surpassed 500 yards on four occasions. Njoku was a focal point on offense for much of his Browns stint, receiving 123 targets in 2023. The play of Harold Fannin Jr. as a rookie this past season set him up to operate as the Browns’ top tight end for years to come, however.
That made it little surprise when Cleveland elected not to retain Njoku in free agency. The 29-year-old is a veteran of 118 games, and he will offer a pass-catching presence to his next team. Njoku lined up a visit with the Ravens in March, but that did not result in a Baltimore deal. Other potential suitors waited until the draft took place to consider circling back to this situation.
The Chargers have already made a number of decisions at the tight end spot this offseason. Will Dissly and Tucker Fisk are unsigned at this point, while Tyler Conklin departed in free agency. Charlie Kolar was added on the open market, and the former Raven could be in store for an uptick in offensive usage on his new team. The Bolts did not add a tight end during the draft, leaving potential room for a late-spring signing.
The Chargers remain near the top of the league in terms of cap space with over $45MM available. A deal in Njoku’s case will no doubt consist of a short-term agreement and one worth less than the $13.69MM AAV of his second Browns contract. Finances will certainly not be an issue if the Chargers eye a deal following his visit.
Am I missing something, or was Gadsen not even mentioned in this article?