Cleveland Browns Set to Keep Four Quarterbacks for 2026 Season The Cleveland Browns are preparing to maintain a four-quarterback depth chart for the 2026 NFL regular season, according to ESPN reporter Daniel Oyefusi. This decision, which includes retaining Deshaun Watson, Shedeur Sanders, Dillon Gabriel, and Taylen Green, marks a rare move in the league, as Oyefusi noted it is uncommon for teams to keep four active quarterbacks on their final roster. The Browns’ approach reflects a strategic effort to build long-term depth while managing the challenges of their current quarterback situation. Watson and Sanders were considered locks to make the final roster before the offseason began. Watson’s retention is largely due to the financial implications of releasing him, as he carries significant dead money on his contract. Sanders, meanwhile, has shown promise as a rookie, starting seven games and demonstrating potential for growth. The decision to keep both players aligns with the Browns’ focus on developing younger talent while managing the risks associated with veteran quarterbacks. Gabriel and Green, however, presented more uncertainty. Gabriel, a southpaw, had a strong performance in a 37-13 victory over the New England Patriots, completing 12 of 15 passes for 186 yards and three touchdowns. His preseason action was limited to a single game, where he finished 5-of-7 for 27 yards and added 66 rushing yards on eight carries. Green, who was selected with a sixth-round pick, had minimal preseason exposure but showed flashes of ability. The Browns’ decision to retain both Gabriel and Green has raised questions about their rationale, especially since neither has seriously challenged Sanders for the backup role.#cleveland_browns #dillon_gabriel #shedeur_sanders #deshaun_watson #daniel_oyefusi
2026 Cleveland Browns: Projecting Final 53-Man Roster The Cleveland Browns are set to open their 2026 NFL regular season with a matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars on September 13 at 1 p.m. ET. Before the season begins, the team must finalize its 53-man roster by 6 p.m. ET on Sunday following a final preseason game against the New England Patriots. The roster decisions will shape the team’s depth and competitive edge, with key positions facing tough choices. The quarterback competition remains central to the Browns’ planning. Deshaun Watson, Shedeur Sanders, Dillon Gabriel, and Taylen Green are all in the mix, though keeping four quarterbacks on the 53-man roster is highly unusual. Watson’s struggles, including a contentious reception from fans during a preseason game, and his injury history may lead to his release. Green’s rookie season is being treated as a redshirt year, while Gabriel is likely to remain as a backup. The Browns may opt to retain two or three quarterbacks, depending on their needs. At running back, Quinshon Judkins and Dylan Sampson are expected to secure starting roles, but Raheim Sanders and Ahmani Marshall are competing for the third spot. Sanders has shown strong performance and pass-protection skills, giving him an edge. Michael Burton, the team’s top fullback prior to injuries, is still in contention despite missing significant time during training camp. The tight end position faces uncertainty, with Joe Royer, a fifth-round pick, sidelined for personal reasons and possibly placed on the reserve/non-football injury list. Harold Fannin Jr., a 2025 rookie, remains the top pass-catcher at the position, but there is no clear backup. The Browns may need to address this depth issue through trades or free agency.#cleveland_browns #dillon_gabriel #shedeur_sanders #deshaun_watson #taylen_green
Isaiah Bond is just the latest highlight of Longhorn WRs excelling at the next level Isaiah Bond, entering his second NFL season, is emerging as a standout performer for the Cleveland Browns, showcasing his elite skills during fall training camp. Two years after his college tenure with the Texas Longhorns, Bond has demonstrated midseason form, consistently outmaneuvering defensive backs and leaving them scrambling to keep up. His ability to make “big play after big play” has drawn attention, with NFL scouts previously comparing his game to that of Jaylen Waddle, the Broncos’ wide receiver. Bond’s combination of exceptional route running and highlight-reel catches has positioned him as a key asset for the Browns, who are optimistic about his potential to become a starting wideout. Bond’s success is part of a broader trend of Texas Longhorns wide receivers making an immediate impact in the NFL. Over the past few years, the program has produced a string of star players, including AD Mitchell, Matthew Golden, and Xavier Worthy, all of whom have transitioned smoothly to professional football. Mitchell, now with the New York Jets, is shaping up as a go-to downfield target, while Golden is expected to solidify his role as a starter for the Green Bay Packers in his second season. Worthy, meanwhile, made a strong impression with the Kansas City Chiefs, recording the second-highest yards per catch among their wideouts despite limited opportunities. These achievements underscore the effectiveness of Texas’ wide receiver development program under head coach Steve Sarkisian. Since taking over at the University of Texas, Sarkisian has overseen a system that consistently produces NFL-ready talent, a factor that has attracted top prospects to the program.#texas_longhorns #cleveland_browns #steve_sarkisian #jaylen_waddle #isaiah_bond
Cleveland Browns Rookie Dae'Quan Wright Enters Transfer Portal as First Active NFL Player Dae'Quan Wright, the Cleveland Browns' rookie tight end and former Ole Miss standout, has entered the NCAA transfer portal, becoming the first active NFL player to do so, according to sources cited by CBS Sports. Wright, who joined the Browns' practice squad during training camp after going undrafted in April, is one of 16 players—many more are expected—to take advantage of a temporary restraining order (TRO) granted by a Louisiana judge. The TRO challenges the NCAA’s five-year eligibility clock, creating a time-sensitive window for players in NFL training camps or on the cut bubble. Wright, who caught 113 passes for 1,603 yards during his collegiate career at Virginia Tech and Ole Miss, including 1,029 yards in his final two seasons with the Rebels, was undrafted in April despite earning second-team All-SEC honors at Ole Miss. He signed with the Philadelphia Eagles but was later claimed by the Browns. While his NFL opportunity remains intact, the transfer portal provides him with leverage to pursue a college return if he is released before the regular season. The legal battle over eligibility rules gained momentum following the Louisiana TRO, which creates a window for players in NFL training camps or on the cut bubble. NFL teams are set to trim their rosters to 53 players by August 30, potentially allowing released players to join college teams for the 2026 season under NIL or revenue share contracts. A Colorado court ruling earlier this summer initially allowed players from the 2022 recruiting class to use their fifth year of eligibility if they returned to college football, but the court later clarified that NCAA rules still apply to players who have signed NFL contracts.#ncaa #ole_miss #cleveland_browns #transfer_portal #dae_quan_wright
Shedeur Sanders Sets NFLPA Licensing Record During Browns Rookie Season Shedeur Sanders made history during his rookie season with the Cleveland Browns by earning a record $17.7 million in NFLPA group licensing income, surpassing the previous single-season high set by Tom Brady. The amount, which includes revenue from jersey sales, trading cards, and other licensing deals, was disclosed in the NFL Players Association’s annual report. This figure marks a 170% increase over his father, Deion Sanders, who will earn during the 2026 season as Colorado’s head coach, and is significantly higher than Sanders’ four-year rookie contract, which totals approximately $4.6 million. The licensing income was distributed to Sanders’ LLC, SS2 Legendary LLC, from May 2025 through February 2026. The largest payment, totaling $9.2 million, was made shortly after the 2025 NFL Draft. In total, Sanders’ LLC received 13 payments throughout the season. The surge in earnings was attributed to a fiercely loyal fanbase that has supported Sanders since his days as an All-Big 12 performer at the University of Colorado. This dedicated following helped drive sales of his jerseys and memorabilia, contributing to the record-breaking payout. Fans who purchased Sanders’ home and away jerseys from the previous season will need to repurchase them after he changed his uniform number from No. 12 to No. 2. This shift is expected to further boost his licensing revenue in the coming seasons. The NFLPA royalty marks set by Sanders highlight the growing influence of rookie players in the league’s merchandising landscape. Despite the financial success, Sanders’ NFL journey has been described as “hellish” by his father, Deion Sanders.#cleveland_browns #deion_sanders #shedeur_sanders #nflpa #ss2_legendary_llc
NFL Undrafted Free Agent Signings: 2026 Team-by-Team Breakdown Arizona Cardinals Elijah Culp, CB, James Madison Tre Wallace, WR, Ole Miss Carlos Allen, DT, Houston Vinny Anthony, WR, Wisconsin James Brockermeyer, C, Miami (FL) Cash Jones, RB, Georgia CJ Nunnally, DL, Purdue Malik Rutherford, WR, Georgia Tech Jack Strand, QB, Minnesota-Moorhead Jack Velling, TE, Michigan State Baltimore Ravens Cortez Braham Jr., WR, Memphis Nick Dawkins, C, Penn State Matthew McDoom, CB, Cincinnati Aaron Graves, DL, Iowa Dontae McMillian, RB, Eastern Michigan Tyler Pezza, TE, Brown Diego Pounds, OT, Ole Miss Octavian Smith Jr., WR, Maryland Trevonte Sylvester, OT, Louisville Silas Walters, S, Miami (OH) Lardarius Webb Jr., S, Wake Forest Reid Williford, LB, Charlotte Dion Wilson Jr., DL, Syracuse Theron Gaines, LB, Tennessee Tech Ja'Mori Maclin, WR, Kentucky Da’Metrius Weatherspoon, OT, Syracuse Desmond Reid, RB, Pitt Carolina Panthers Jaylon Guilbreau, DB, Texas Aaron Hall, DT, Duke Haynes King, QB, Georgia Tech Cam Miller, CB, Rutgers Kobe Prentice, WR, Baylor Caden Barnett, IOL, Wyoming Coleman Bennett, RB, Kennesaw State KC Eziomume, CB, Tulane Hayden Large, TE, Iowa Miller Moss, QB, Louisville Gabriel Plascencia, K, San Diego State Skyler Thomas, S, Oregon State Cincinnati Bengals Jack Dingle, LB, Cincinnati Eric Gentry, LB, USC Jack Kattus, TE, Kentucky Corey Robinson, OL, Georgia Tech Ceyair Wright, CB, Nebraska Cleveland Browns Davon Booth, RB, Mississippi State Logan Fano, Edge, Utah Bernard Gooden, DL, LSU T.J.#baltimore_ravens #arizona_cardinals #carolina_panthers #cleveland_browns #cincinnati_bengals
10 Players to Watch on Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft The Cleveland Browns entered the final day of the 2026 NFL Draft with five total picks in the last four rounds, including four in the fifth round at Nos. 146, 148, 149, and 152, and one in the seventh round at No. 248. The team had made three trades on the second night of the draft to adjust their draft position and secure additional capital. As Day 3 of the draft approached, analysts highlighted 10 players who could be key targets for the Browns in the final rounds. Cornerback Jermod McCoy of Tennessee stood out as a potential addition to the secondary. McCoy played two seasons at Oregon State (2023) and one at Tennessee (2024). At Oregon State, he recorded 31 tackles, 0.5 tackles for loss, two interceptions, seven passes defensed, and one fumble recovery. At Tennessee, he totaled 44 tackles, 0.5 tackles for loss, four interceptions, and nine passes defensed. He tore his ACL in January 2025, missing the entire 2025 season. Defensive end Dani Dennis-Sutton of Penn State was another top target. The four-year starter appeared in 55 games, recording 127 tackles, 34.5 tackles for loss, 23.5 sacks, two interceptions, eight passes defensed, two fumble recoveries, and seven forced fumbles. In 2025, he generated 45 total pressures as a pass rusher, according to PFF. Cornerback Keith Abney II from Arizona State also drew attention. Over three seasons, Abney recorded 98 tackles, one tackle for loss, one sack, six interceptions, 21 passes defensed, two forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery. In 2025, he broke up nine passes in coverage while allowing 32 receptions in coverage, according to PFF. Linebacker Kyle Louis of Pitt was highlighted for his versatility. The four-year starter appeared in 37 career games, totaling 201 tackles, 25.#cleveland_browns #jermod_mccoy #dani_dennissutton #keith_abney_ii #kyle_louis
Observations from Day 1 of voluntary veteran minicamp The Cleveland Browns began their voluntary veteran minicamp on April 21, 2026, marking the first opportunity for the team’s new coaching staff under head coach Todd Monken to work with players during the offseason program. The three-day event, running through April 23, focused on evaluating the quarterback competition and refining team dynamics. Monken expressed satisfaction with the initial session, highlighting the players’ adaptability and the progress made despite the condensed timeline. The minicamp’s first day featured structured drills designed to assess the quarterbacks’ readiness. All three quarterbacks—Shedeur Sanders, Deshaun Watson, and Dillon Gabriel—participated in team periods, rotating through individual and group drills. Monken explained that the practice plan aimed to balance reps among the quarterbacks while giving Sanders a slight edge due to his early reps in the first 11-on-11 period. The drills included a mix of handoffs to running backs and live plays, with the coaching staff emphasizing the importance of evaluating each quarterback’s ability to lead and execute under pressure. In the first 11-on-11 period, Sanders started with handoffs to running backs Dylan Sampson and Raheim Sanders. The second team period incorporated more live action, with Sanders connecting with tight end Harold Fannin Jr. on the opening play. Watson followed, demonstrating his ability to move the ball with a handoff to Sampson and later completing passes to Fannin, Jack Stoll, Tylan Wallace, and Malachi Corley. Gabriel, who took over in the 7-on-7 drills, connected with Caden Prieskorn on consecutive passes before a pass was intercepted.#cleveland_browns #todd_monken #dillon_gabriel #shedeur_sanders #deshaun_watson
Shedeur Sanders says Todd Monken brings 'new vibe' to Browns Shedeur Sanders, the Cleveland Browns' second-year quarterback, described the coaching staff under first-year head coach Todd Monken as bringing a "new vibe" and "new energy" to the team during the first practice of the Browns' three-day voluntary veteran minicamp. Sanders, who wore the No. 2 jersey for the first time since his college days, emphasized the positive impact of Monken's leadership and the overall coaching staff, which he said fosters both personal connection and daily competition. "Coach Monken's great and all the other coaches on the staff are extremely great," Sanders said. "They're going to understand and embrace you just as a person, and then they push you each and every day in the meeting room, on the field, in the weight room. It's a new vibe, a new energy." Sanders, the 144th overall pick in the 2025 NFL draft, entered the 2025 season as the fourth quarterback in Cleveland's competition under former head coach Kevin Stefanski. However, he quickly rose to prominence, starting the final seven games of the season and earning the No. 2 jersey for the 2025 campaign. During that stretch, Sanders compiled a 3-4 record as a starter, leading the Browns to victories against division rivals the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cincinnati Bengals in the final two games of the season. Despite the team's overall 5-12 record, Sanders' performances in those critical matchups highlighted his potential as a leader. This season, Sanders finds himself in a quarterback competition with Deshaun Watson, who missed the 2025 season due to rehabilitation from a 2024 Achilles tear, and Dillon Gabriel, the 2025 third-round pick who started six games as a rookie.#cleveland_browns #todd_monken #dillon_gabriel #shedeur_sanders #deshaun_watson
It Is Time For The Cleveland Browns To Re-Sign David Njoku The Cleveland Browns face a critical decision in addressing their tight end depth ahead of the 2026 season. While Harold Fannin’s rookie performance has provided a glimmer of hope, the team’s current roster lacks commitment to other tight end prospects, leaving them vulnerable to injury or underperformance. With Fannin expected to be a key contributor, the Browns must evaluate their options to ensure they have reliable backups and a developmental plan for the future. The Browns’ tight end room currently includes several players with minimal guaranteed contracts, such as Jack Stoll, Blake Whiteheart, Brenden Bates, Caden Prieskorn, and Sal Cannella. All of these players are listed at $0 guaranteed, signaling a lack of confidence in their roles. While Stoll is considered a potential lock, the absence of guaranteed money suggests the team views him as a long shot for a roster spot. This uncertainty highlights the Browns’ struggle to build a cohesive tight end unit, relying heavily on Fannin’s rookie success. The draft presents a viable path to address this need, but the team must navigate a complex landscape of talent and positional priorities. Players like Kenyon Sadiq, who is ranked 17th on the consensus draft board, could be targeted if the Browns secure a high pick. However, the competition for top-tier talent means the Browns may need to trade up or wait until later rounds to secure a tight end. Eli Stowers and Oscar Delp are also potential candidates, though their availability and development timelines remain uncertain. Max Klare, a standout from Ohio State, stands out as a strong option, with the potential to complement Fannin in the long term. Despite the draft’s promise, the Browns face risks in relying solely on rookie talent.#cleveland_browns #david_njoku #harold_fannin #kenyon_sadiq #max_klare
Cleveland Browns Linked to Surprising NFL Draft Move The Cleveland Browns are reportedly considering a significant move in the upcoming NFL Draft, focusing on addressing a critical need at the tight end position. This potential strategy follows the team’s recent success with Harold Fannin Jr., a third-round pick from the 2023 draft who has emerged as a key contributor to the offense. Fannin’s rookie season was marked by 72 receptions for 731 yards and six touchdowns, with 107 targets, establishing him as a reliable target in the Browns’ passing game. However, the team’s decision to release veteran tight end David Njoku—despite his Pro Bowl credentials—has left a gap behind Fannin, prompting speculation about a draft investment in the position. Njoku, a former Pro Bowler, was let go after the 2023 season, and he remains unsigned as of now. The Browns’ move to part ways with Njoku has created a pressing need for depth at tight end, as the team now lacks a clear secondary option behind Fannin. Analysts suggest that the Browns may prioritize adding another tight end in the draft, particularly with their nine draft picks available this year. Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine highlighted the importance of this position, noting that Todd Monken, the team’s offensive coordinator, has experience working with dynamic tight ends like Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely. Ballentine argued that while drafting a tight end may not be a top priority, it could provide flexibility for the quarterback position in the future. Potential targets for the Browns include Ohio State’s Max Klare, Stanford’s Sam Roush, and Georgia’s Oscar Delp, all of whom are projected to be selected in the later rounds.#cleveland_browns #david_njoku #todd_monken #harold_fannin_jr #alex_ballentine
Cleveland Browns Free Agency: 14 Players Remain Unsigned as Draft Approaches As of early 2026, the Cleveland Browns are navigating a complex free agency landscape, with 14 key players still searching for new teams just weeks before the NFL Draft. The Browns entered the offseason with 26 pending free agents, but only a handful have secured new deals, leaving the majority in limbo. This situation reflects the team’s ongoing transition following a coaching change and the need to rebuild key positions while managing financial constraints. The Browns’ most notable signings have focused on external additions, including guards Zion Johnson and Elgton Jenkins, and linebacker Quincy Williams. However, the team’s decision to re-sign reserve offensive lineman Teven Jenkins on a one-year, $4 million contract has drawn attention. This move highlights the Browns’ strategy to prioritize depth over long-term commitments, even as they face challenges in retaining high-profile players. Among the Browns’ most prominent free agents, tight end David Njoku remains a focal point. Despite a brief visit with the Baltimore Ravens and rumored interest from the Miami Dolphins, Njoku’s future is uncertain. The emergence of Harold Fannin Jr. as the team’s primary tight end has reduced the likelihood of a multi-year deal for Njoku. A return to Cleveland on a one-year contract is still possible, but the Browns may prioritize drafting a replacement, leaving Njoku to explore other options. Guard Jack Conklin, entering his age-32 season, faces an uncertain future. His limited playing time over the past three seasons due to injuries has made a return to Cleveland unlikely. The Browns’ trade for Tytus Howard has further diminished Conklin’s value, though a reunion with coach Kevin Stefanski could still be a possibility.#elgton_jenkins #cleveland_browns #zion_johnson #quincy_williams #teven_jenkins
Bengals and 41-Year-Old QB Joe Flacco Ink One-Year Deal Joe Flacco, the 41-year-old quarterback, has agreed to a one-year contract with the Cincinnati Bengals, according to his agent, Joe Linta, as reported by ESPN. The deal is valued at $6 million but could reach up to $9 million with performance-based incentives. Flacco’s return marks his third stint with the Bengals, following previous stints with the Baltimore Ravens, Denver Broncos, and Cleveland Browns. Flacco began the 2024 season as the starting quarterback for the Cleveland Browns but was benched after four games in favor of rookie Dillon Gabriel. Meanwhile, the Bengals faced a quarterback shortage after Joe Burrow suffered a turf toe injury and Jake Browning struggled in limited action. The Browns traded Flacco to Cincinnati in exchange for a 2026 fifth-round draft pick and a 2026 sixth-round pick. Browning, who signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers earlier this offseason, was released by the Bengals. Flacco made six starts for the Bengals in Burrow’s absence, contributing to the team’s efforts during the season. In nine appearances, he completed 61.7% of his passes for 1,664 yards, 13 touchdowns, and four interceptions. Despite playing with a sprained AC joint in his throwing shoulder, Flacco threw for a career-high 470 yards in a loss to the Chicago Bears. His performance earned him a spot in the 2024 Pro Bowl, marking his first appearance in the event after 18 seasons in the NFL. Flacco expressed a desire to compete for a starting role again in 2026, indicating his intent to remain a key player for the Bengals. A first-round pick by the Ravens in 2008, Flacco has accumulated 48,176 passing yards, 272 touchdowns, and 172 interceptions over his career.#baltimore_ravens #denver_broncos #cleveland_browns #cincinnati_bengals #joe_flacco
Browns Add Defensive End A.J. Epenesa, Sign Wide Receiver Tylan Wallace The Cleveland Browns have finalized additions to their roster, bringing in defensive end A.J. Epenesa and wide receiver Tylan Wallace. Epenesa, a former second-round pick, is joining the team on a one-year contract worth up to $5 million, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The move marks the end of his six-year tenure with the Buffalo Bills, where he played under a modified defensive scheme. The Bills are transitioning to a 3-4 alignment under new defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard, and Epenesa will remain in a 4-3 role as a complementary pass-rushing presence. Epenesa’s time with the Bills included a two-year, $12 million contract signed in 2024. Despite playing 15 games in 2024, he recorded just 2.5 sacks, a decline from his previous seasons. However, he remained a key rotational player, appearing on 47% of the team’s defensive snaps. The Bills also signed Bradley Chubb and will have Michael Hoecht returning from injury, which likely influenced Epenesa’s departure. The Browns, meanwhile, already have Alex Wright as Myles Garrett’s primary sidekick, but Epenesa’s 19 sacks over the past three seasons make him a valuable addition. The Browns’ decision to sign Epenesa at a lower cost than Wright’s $33 million, three-year deal reflects their strategy to balance experience with value. Epenesa’s role as a reliable pass-rusher and his ability to contribute on special teams could provide depth to the defense. Wide receiver Tylan Wallace is also joining the Browns, per cleveland.com’s Mary Kay Cabot. Wallace, a five-year veteran with the Baltimore Ravens, will follow former Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken to Cleveland.#buffalo_bills #jim_leonhard #cleveland_browns #aj_epenesa #tylan_wallace
Former Bills DE AJ Epenesa Signs One-Year Deal with Browns Former Buffalo Bills defensive end AJ Epenesa is set to sign a one-year contract with the Cleveland Browns, according to a source shared with ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Wednesday. The deal, which could be worth up to $5 million, marks Epenesa’s return to the NFL after spending his entire six-year career with the Bills. Epenesa, 27, was selected in the second round of the 2020 NFL draft by Buffalo and became a consistent presence on the team’s defensive line. Over his NFL career, he has appeared in 91 games, starting 19 of them. Known for his ability to disrupt opposing offenses, Epenesa has accumulated 24 sacks in his career. However, his production dipped in 2025, as he recorded just 2.5 sacks in 16 games, compared to 19 sacks over the previous three seasons. Despite the decline in sack numbers, Epenesa has remained a threat through his arm usage. He has registered 14 batted passes and four interceptions throughout his career, including two in 2025. His ability to disrupt quarterbacks has also translated to the postseason, where he has played in 14 games. While he has yet to record a sack in the playoffs, Epenesa has contributed with three quarterback hits and three batted passes. The move to the Browns represents a new chapter for Epenesa, who has spent his entire NFL career with the Bills. The deal comes as the Browns look to bolster their defensive line, adding depth and experience to a unit that has seen significant changes in recent years. Epenesa’s versatility and ability to impact games through both sacks and pass-rushing techniques make him a valuable addition to the team’s roster. ESPN’s Alaina Getzenberg contributed to this report.#buffalo_bills #espn #adam_schefter #cleveland_browns #aj_epenesa
Cleveland Browns’ $1.5 million gamble on Robert Tonyan could fill void left by David Njoku’s departure The Cleveland Browns face a significant challenge in the wake of David Njoku’s departure, as the team loses not only a key contributor on the field but also a veteran leader whose presence shaped the locker room dynamic. Njoku’s exit leaves a glaring gap in both production and leadership, particularly as the Browns navigate a new era under head coach Todd Monken. While Njoku was expected to remain with the team long-term, recent developments—including the emergence of Harold Fannin Jr. and the departure of offensive coordinator Kevin Stefanski—have shifted the narrative, prompting Njoku to move on to another team. The Browns have already addressed some of Njoku’s blocking responsibilities by signing Jack Stoll, a dedicated blocking tight end. However, Stoll is unlikely to replicate Njoku’s impact as a pass-catcher, raising questions about how Monken will structure the offense moving forward. With the new coaching staff emphasizing a two-tight-end scheme, the Browns may prioritize adding a proven receiver to complement Fannin Jr., who is expected to be the primary target in the passing game. Robert Tonyan, currently with the Kansas City Chiefs, emerges as a compelling option for the Browns. Projected to sign a one-year, $1.5 million contract, Tonyan represents a cost-effective solution for a team looking to bolster depth without overpaying. His career highlights include a breakout season in 2020 with the Green Bay Packers, where he led the league in catch rate and recorded 11 touchdowns. However, his recent performance has declined, largely due to limited playing time and reduced usage in the Chiefs’ offense.#cleveland_browns #david_njoku #robert_tonyan #todd_monken #harold_fannin_jr
Patriots Target Pro Bowl Tight End to Bolster Offense Amid AFC East Rivalry The New England Patriots have made significant strides in free agency, adding key players to both their offensive and defensive units. Under the leadership of head coach Mike Vrabel and general manager Eliot Wolf, the team has transformed from a struggling roster in the post-Tom Brady era into a competitive force in the AFC East. Recent acquisitions include offensive linemen Alijah Vera-Tucker, wide receiver Romeo Doubs, and fullback Reggie Gilliam, while the defense has welcomed safety Kevin Byard, defensive end Dre’Mont Jones, and linebacker K.J. Britt. With quarterback Drake Maye still under a rookie contract, the Patriots have ample cap space to continue strengthening their roster. The Bills, meanwhile, have focused on bolstering their defense through free agency, but the Patriots’ resurgence has shifted the balance in the division. From 2020 to 2024, the Bills dominated the AFC East, but the Patriots reclaimed the title last season. Vrabel’s rebuild has paid dividends, and the team is now positioned to challenge the Bills annually. The Patriots’ ability to add talent has raised the stakes for their division rivals, particularly the Bills, who will need to adapt to a more formidable opponent. A key area of focus for the Patriots is their offensive line, where Josh McDaniels’ expertise as offensive coordinator could be leveraged with a versatile tight end. Pro Bowl tight end David Njoku, currently with the Cleveland Browns, is emerging as a top target for New England. Despite limited playing time due to quarterback struggles in Cleveland, Njoku has remained productive, recording nine receiving touchdowns over the past two seasons while missing at least six games each year.#new_england_patriots #mike_vrabel #cleveland_browns #david_njoku #eliot_wolf
Ravens host former Browns TE David Njoku on free agent visit The Baltimore Ravens welcomed former Cleveland Browns tight end David Njoku for a free-agent visit, as the team evaluates potential additions to enhance its offensive capabilities during the ongoing offseason restructuring. This move comes amid a flurry of activity in the NFL free agency market, with the Ravens actively seeking ways to strengthen their roster. The Ravens have already made several key signings, including extending star tight end Mark Andrews for a three-year deal and adding veteran tight end Durham Smythe to bolster their blocking schemes. However, the team is also exploring options to address gaps in their receiving corps. Njoku, a former standout tight end for the Browns, remains a focal point of their interest. Njoku, known for his athleticism and route-running ability, has faced challenges in recent seasons due to recurring injuries. Over the past two years, he missed 11 games, which limited his production. In the 2023 season, he played in 12 games, recording 33 receptions for 293 yards and four touchdowns. His combination of size, speed, and hands makes him an appealing target for teams looking to add depth to their tight end room. The Ravens’ decision to bring Njoku in for a visit underscores their commitment to improving their offensive options. With the team’s current tight end group already featuring Andrews and Smythe, adding a reliable pass-catcher could provide flexibility in the red zone and open up opportunities for other receivers. However, Njoku’s injury history will be a critical factor in any potential deal, as teams will weigh the risk of adding a player with a track record of missed games.#baltimore_ravens #cleveland_browns #david_njoku #mark_andrews #durham_smythe
Dolphins re-sign Green III The Miami Dolphins have re-signed cornerback A.J. Green III to a new contract. Green III, who has spent the past five seasons with the team, will continue to contribute to the defense. Over his career with the Dolphins, Green III has played in 39 games, with two starts, and has recorded 26 tackles (20 solo), two interceptions, seven passes defensed, and two fumble recoveries. Additionally, he has made 15 special teams tackles. Green III’s journey to the NFL began as an undrafted college free agent with the Cleveland Browns in 2020. Prior to his professional career, he played college football at Oklahoma State from 2016 to 2019. During his collegiate tenure, he appeared in 48 games, starting 39 of them, and recorded 147 tackles (119 solo), six interceptions (one returned for a touchdown), 27 passes defensed, and two forced fumbles. His NFL career has included stints with the Cleveland Browns (2020-2023), the Los Angeles Rams (2025), and the Miami Dolphins (2025). Green III made his postseason debut with Cleveland in 2020, though the team did not advance beyond the first round. Since joining the Dolphins, he has continued to develop as a defensive player, contributing both in coverage and on special teams. The Dolphins’ decision to re-sign Green III reflects their confidence in his ability to provide depth and reliability on the defensive backfield. With the team looking to strengthen its secondary, Green III’s experience and versatility make him a valuable asset. His re-signing also underscores the Dolphins’ commitment to building a competitive roster for the upcoming season. As part of their free agency efforts, the Dolphins have also made several other signings, including guard/tackle Jamaree Salyer, safety Zayne Anderson, and edge rusher Robert Beal Jr., among others.#los_angeles_rams #miami_dolphins #cleveland_browns #a_j_green_iii #jamaree_salyer
Browns cut ties with 2-time All-Pro, former 1st-round pick as free agency begins The Cleveland Browns have released veteran offensive tackle Jack Conklin, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. The move, while anticipated by some, has left fans reflecting on the reliability and consistency Conklin provided over the years. Conklin, a former first-round pick, was selected No. 8 overall by the Tennessee Titans in the 2016 NFL Draft out of Michigan State. The Browns acquired him ahead of the 2020 season, and after four seasons with the Titans, he spent the next six years as a cornerstone right tackle for Cleveland. During his tenure with the Browns, Conklin earned two All-Pro honors, though his career was marked by recurring injuries that limited his availability. Throughout his time with the Titans, Conklin played in 57 games. With the Browns, he matched that total, appearing in 57 games across six seasons. However, his playing time fluctuated significantly, with varying numbers of games per season: 15 in 2020, 7 in 2021, 14 in 2022, 1 in 2023, 12 in 2024, and 8 in 2025. Despite these inconsistencies, Conklin remained a dependable presence when healthy, contributing to the Browns’ offensive line. The Browns have made multiple changes to their offensive line this offseason, signaling a shift toward rebuilding the unit. With Conklin’s departure, the team is moving forward with a new group of players, hoping for greater stability and longevity. While Conklin’s future remains uncertain, his time with the Browns has been described as a mix of challenges and contributions. His release marks the end of a chapter for the veteran tackle, who will now seek opportunities elsewhere in the league.#michigan_state #nfl_network #tennessee_titans #cleveland_browns #jack_conklin
