Posted on Feb 10

Njoku announces departure from Browns, expresses gratitude for his time in Cleveland

Posted Feb 10, 2026

David Njoku has announced his departure from the Cleveland Browns, marking the end of a notable nine-year tenure with the team.

Why it matters: Njoku's exit signifies a broader transformation for the Browns as they look to revamp their offensive strategy amidst substantial roster changes.

General manager Andrew Berry indicated that the team's offense will undergo "significant turnover," suggesting that the Browns are committed to reshaping their identity after a challenging season.
Njoku ranks second in franchise history among tight ends for both touchdown catches (34) and total receptions (384), underscoring his impact on the team's offense throughout his career.

What’s new: The announcement was made via an emotional Instagram post where Njoku expressed gratitude towards Cleveland, stating, "The time for me to find a new home has come and all I can think of is just the gratefulness in my heart."

This comes after Njoku had previously stated his commitment to the team: "I'm not going nowhere. I ain't f---ing leaving."
Despite his strong expressions of loyalty, the tight end's performance in 2025, including 33 receptions for 293 yards and only four touchdowns, may have contributed to the decision to move on.

Yes, but: While Njoku enjoyed a successful peak, including a Pro Bowl selection in 2023, recent seasons have been marked by injury and diminished production.

He missed 11 games due to injuries over the past two seasons, which likely influenced the Browns' decision-making process.
In contrast, Harold Fannin Jr. emerged as a prominent target for the Browns in 2025, recording 72 receptions for 731 yards and six touchdowns, indicating a shift in the team's offensive reliance.

What to watch: As the Browns prepare for the future, the tight end position remains pivotal in modern offensive schemes that increasingly emphasize versatile and dynamic playmakers.

With Njoku's departure, the Browns may look to the draft or free agency to fill this key role, potentially seeking a tight end who can contribute both as a receiver and a blocker.
Fans should monitor how the team reconfigures its offensive strategy, particularly in light of their pursuit of a more balanced attack that leverages the strengths of emerging players.

The bottom line: David Njoku's exit marks a significant chapter closing for the Cleveland Browns, highlighting the ongoing evolution of their roster and strategy as they aim to build a more competitive team for the future.

Njoku announces departure from Browns, expresses gratitude for his time in Cleveland

Alex Parker

Posted Feb 10, 2026

David Njoku has announced his departure from the Cleveland Browns, marking the end of a notable nine-year tenure with the team.

Why it matters: Njoku's exit signifies a broader transformation for the Browns as they look to revamp their offensive strategy amidst substantial roster changes.

General manager Andrew Berry indicated that the team's offense will undergo "significant turnover," suggesting that the Browns are committed to reshaping their identity after a challenging season.

Njoku ranks second in franchise history among tight ends for both touchdown catches (34) and total receptions (384), underscoring his impact on the team's offense throughout his career.

This comes after Njoku had previously stated his commitment to the team: "I'm not going nowhere. I ain't f---ing leaving."

Despite his strong expressions of loyalty, the tight end's performance in 2025, including 33 receptions for 293 yards and only four touchdowns, may have contributed to the decision to move on.

Yes, but: While Njoku enjoyed a successful peak, including a Pro Bowl selection in 2023, recent seasons have been marked by injury and diminished production.

He missed 11 games due to injuries over the past two seasons, which likely influenced the Browns' decision-making process.

In contrast, Harold Fannin Jr. emerged as a prominent target for the Browns in 2025, recording 72 receptions for 731 yards and six touchdowns, indicating a shift in the team's offensive reliance.

What to watch: As the Browns prepare for the future, the tight end position remains pivotal in modern offensive schemes that increasingly emphasize versatile and dynamic playmakers.

With Njoku's departure, the Browns may look to the draft or free agency to fill this key role, potentially seeking a tight end who can contribute both as a receiver and a blocker.

Fans should monitor how the team reconfigures its offensive strategy, particularly in light of their pursuit of a more balanced attack that leverages the strengths of emerging players.