Harold Fannin Jr. is coming off an impressive rookie season with the Cleveland Browns. The emerging tight end is likely to see his workload elevated going forward after teammate David Njoku announced his departure during the 2026 NFL offseason. This has a former quarterback comparing him to a legendary Hall of Famer.
Harold Fannin Jr. Compared to Hall of Fame Tight End by Former Browns QB Brian Hoyer
Fannin quickly became one of the most productive rookies, especially among tight ends, during the 2025 NFL season. He emerged as one of the top passing targets for the Browns, despite sharing the field with Njoku.
Now that Njoku announced that he will be moving on from the Browns during the offseason, the rookie appears primed to take another step forward in his second season. Former quarterback Brian Hoyer recently discussed his promising outlook and even compared him to an iconic Hall of Famer in his position.
“I think Harold Fannin Jr. is a star in the making … I think he’s like an Antonio Gates, but a little faster … They’re the same kind of player, but now you can make Fannin the primary target,” stated Hoyer.
“I thought Harold Fannin is a star in the making. I think he’s like an Antonio Gates but a little faster. They’re the same kind of player but now you can make Fannin the primary target.”
📞@bhoyer7 on David Njoku leaving, making Harold Fannin officially TE1 pic.twitter.com/AxArsmvBGb
— 92.3 The Fan (@923TheFan) February 10, 2026
Antonio Gates was selected to eight Pro Bowls and as an All-Pro five times, including three as a first-teamer, during his legendary career with the Los Angeles Chargers. He is widely considered to be one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history, so Hoyer’s comparing Fannin to him is extremely high praise.
The rookie totaled 72 receptions for 731 yards and six touchdowns in his first season with the Browns, on his way to finishing 23rd among all tight ends in PFSN’s Impact Rankings.
He essentially split the positional workload with Njoku, but his expected departure this year potentially opens the door for a massive second season in the Browns.
Gates wasn’t nearly as productive in his rookie season with the Chargers, totaling just 24 receptions for 389 yards and two touchdowns. He really broke out in year two, which began a streak of eight consecutive Pro Bowl selections. This season included a career-high 13 touchdowns to go with his 81 receptions for 964 yards.
The Browns are likely hoping that Hoyer’s comparison for Fannin is accurate and are also looking for a year-two breakout. The opportunity is there, with his main competition for targets out of the picture and the franchise in need of reliable pass-catchers. His bright outlook may be why they feel comfortable parting ways with Njoku this year.
