The Cleveland Browns are still trying to establish their identity on offense under rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel. However, as the team continues to struggle, General Manager Andrew Berry may need to consider moving some veteran players to focus on long-term roster building and development. One of those veterans could be David Njoku, the longtime tight end whom Cleveland selected in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft.
It remains to be seen whether Njoku will stay with the Browns as the Tuesday, November 4, trade deadline approaches. While moving Njoku doesn’t appear to be a top priority for the Browns, it’s certainly not off the table as Tuesday draws closer.
Cleveland Browns not ruling out moving David Njoku before deadline
According to a report from Cleveland.com insider Mary Kay Cabot, the franchise isn’t entering the week with the intention of moving veterans like Njoku or guard Wyatt Teller, but it remains open to potential offers.
Cabot explained the entire situation: “The Browns aren’t heading into Tuesday’s deadline intending to trade David Njoku or other starters such as right guard Wyatt Teller, who are both in the final year of their contracts. But they are open to any and all possibilities, except for trading Myles Garrett. As I reported this week, there’s ‘zero chance’ of that happening.”
While trading may not be the team’s priority, they are open to listening to offers. As Cabot puts it, “But the Browns will listen to offers, and if someone makes a proposal they can’t refuse, they’ll pivot from their strategy and make the deal. I think they’re in the market for a couple of role players who can help them over the next several years.”
Njoku has continued to be a reliable offensive weapon for the Browns. As of this week in the 2025 season, he has recorded 27 receptions for 260 yards and two touchdowns. At 6-foot-4 and 246 pounds, the 29-year-old could provide valuable depth and veteran experience for a Super Bowl contender seeking help at the tight-end position.
The Browns have the worst offense in the 2025 season so far. According to PFSN’s Offense Impact, the Browns stand dead-last 32nd in the season’s offense ranking with a score of 54.9. While many might point out the QB problem, it is far more complex than just that.
Of course, moving such a prominent weapon away from rookie Gabriel, or backup Shedeur Sanders if the Browns opt to make another quarterback change, would be a major loss for either young passer. Cleveland currently sits at 2-6 on the season, placing fourth in the AFC North standings.
The NFL is now in the middle of its Week 9 schedule, with Cleveland on its bye week. The Browns will return in Week 10 to face the New York Jets on the road, and whether Njoku remains on the roster by then remains one of the biggest storylines to watch.