3 free agents Cleveland Browns can’t afford to lose in 2022
By Greg Newland
Cleveland Browns Player to bring back No. 2 – David Njoku
I could make the argument that David Njoku was the most explosive player on the Cleveland Browns roster in 2021. Not only does he have the size of a tight end, he finds a way to make some unbelievable catches.
Early in his career blocking and drops were a concern, but he has drastically improved in both areas. Njoku has some injury concerns but also had a solid 2021 of durability. In an offense that utilizes the position more than anyone else in the league, I don’t know how the Browns don’t bring back Njoku.
The bigger question, in my opinion, will they move on from Austin Hooper. The 2020 free agent that hasn’t lived up to expectations can be cut post-June 1 with limited dead money, but the issue is, the Browns will need someone to line up at the position.
Hooper hasn’t earned the $13.23 million he will make in 2022, but he also isn’t a bad player. He was just expected to be a difference-maker, which Njoku has taken over. With the likely release of Jarvis Landry and moving on from Rashard Higgins, I hope Berry keeps Njoku around just for some continuity if nothing else.
It will be a lot for one organization to have $20 million-plus locked up on tight-ends for a season, but it’s a necessary evil for the type of offense Kevin Stefanski wants to run.