Cleveland Browns News: Cowboys interested in trading for David Njoku

The Cleveland Browns could have a trade partner in Dallas for David Njoku

In a move that came as a surprise, but really shouldn’t have, tight end David Njoku has asked the Cleveland Browns for a trade. And to prove he wants to get something done, he has even made a high profile move with his representation.

Njoku recently fired his agent and decided to hire one of the biggest names in the business — Drew Rosenhaus. If this sounds familiar, it’s because it is.

Just last season a similar situation took place when running back Duke Johnson hired Rosenhaus and asked to be traded. Johnson saw himself slip down the depth chart after Cleveland signed Kareem Hunt behind Nick Chubb and wanted out. Eventually, he got his way and was sent to the Houston Texans for a third-round pick.

Njoku has also seen his spot on the depth chart change as the Browns gave Austin Hooper a massive contract in the offseason and also drafted Harrison Bryant. Seeing the writing on the wall, he wants a fresh start and according to Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com, he could find that with the Dallas Cowboys, a team that’s reportedly interested in adding Njoku to their roster — even though Cleveland also says they want to hang on to him.

"“But the Browns, who picked up his fifth-year option in April worth about $6.4 million for the 2021 season, want to keep him and would likely want a first-round pick to trade him, one source told cleveland.com. The Cowboys are one team that might have some interest, another source said.” — Cabot, Cleveland.com"

For some, the Browns picking up his fifth-year option is an indication they want him here for another couple of seasons. In reality, it could make him more enticing to trade as the team landing Njoku would be able to keep him in town for more than just the final year of his contract.

In Dallas, that would give them plenty of time to allow Njoku to battle with their potential starter Blake Jarwin, who was hoping to be untested for the job after Jason Witten left in free agency.

Jarwin does have some upside but Njoku is a much more polished and proven pass-catcher.

Dallas being interested makes plenty of sense but the issue is going to be the asking price. Cleveland says they want a first-round pick to make a move but that seems unrealistic for Njoku. Then again, you always should start high with negotiations.

In the end, there could be something done but don’t be surprised if it comes after camp starts, as it did with Johnson.