Cleveland Browns: 4 players who will be key to winning in Week 2

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KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI – JANUARY 17: Tight end David Njoku #85 of the Cleveland Browns leaps over cornerback L’Jarius Sneed #38 and free safety Juan Thornhill #22 of the Kansas City Chief during the second quarter of the AFC Divisional Playoff game at Arrowhead Stadium on January 17, 2021 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) /

3. Cleveland Browns TE, David Njoku

In 2020, David Njoku showcased the ability to adapt and be more of a blocking tight end, while still making plays.

In Week 1, Njoku only caught three passes, on five targets, for 76 yards, but displayed what Pete Smith of Sports Illustrated called “elite abilities.”

Njoku was able to keep the Chiefs defense honest as he was able to stretch the field and make some big-time catches. He used his speed and athleticism to show that the Browns can stretch the field with more than just their receiving corps.

With Mayfield being able to trust Njoku down the field as he showed last Sunday, it is a double-win for the Browns.

First, it will force defenses to hone in on Njoku down the field, which in turn will allow guys like Austin Hooper and Jarvis Landry to operate over the middle, where they are best suited.

Second, with the potential of Njoku being able to stretch the field, it will open up the running game. The Browns possess the ability to open up the run with the pass and the pass with the run. Adding on to this, in two tight end sets, defenses won’t know whether head coach Kevin Stefanski is setting up a pass play or run play.

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