David Njoku Could Be the Key to Kansas City’s Tight End Future Amid Uncertainty
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The Kansas City Chiefs’ future at tight end is hanging in the balance as Travis Kelce has yet to make a final decision on his retirement, and backup Noah Gray had a disastrous 2025 season that only deepened the uncertainty. As one of the most crucial positions in the Chiefs’ offensive system, the tight end spot could see a major shakeup in the near future. However, there may be a solution to stabilize the position: David Njoku, the talented tight end from the Cleveland Browns, has signaled his departure from the team, and his future could very well lie in Kansas City.

Njoku’s Departure from Cleveland Signals New Opportunities

In a move that seems to mark the end of his time in Cleveland, Njoku announced his departure from the Browns, essentially signaling that he has no intention of returning to the franchise. This marks the latest in a long line of frustrations for the pass-catching tight end, who has struggled throughout his career to find consistent stability and quarterback play. Njoku’s tenure in Cleveland has been defined by a revolving door of quarterbacks that has hindered his ability to reach his full potential. The list of quarterbacks that have started games while Njoku was in Cleveland is staggering: DeShone Kizer, Cody Kessler, Kevin Hogan, Tyrod Taylor, Baker Mayfield, Case Keenum, Jacoby Brissett, Deshaun Watson, P.J. Walker, Dorian Thompson-Robinson, Joe Flacco, Jameis Winston, Jeff Driskel, Dillon Gabriel, and even Shedeur Sanders.

This constant shift in quarterbacks has left Njoku in a tough position, struggling to find any form of consistency or chemistry with the signal callers. It’s no wonder that the 26-year-old tight end is ready for a change of scenery, and Kansas City could be the perfect place for him to finally thrive.

A New Chapter with Patrick Mahomes Could Unlock Njoku’s True Potential

If Njoku does indeed land in Kansas City, it would mark a major change for the veteran tight end. He has never played with a quarterback like Patrick Mahomes, and the potential for Njoku to be paired with one of the most dynamic playmakers in the NFL is incredibly exciting. This could be the opportunity that completely transforms Njoku’s career, unlocking a ceiling he has never come close to reaching in Cleveland. Playing with Mahomes would offer a dramatic shift in Njoku’s production, as Mahomes has a proven track record of elevating his playmakers, especially his tight ends.

The Chiefs have had a fantastic run with Kelce at the top of the tight end position, but his age and the wear and tear from years of elite play are beginning to show. If Kelce does decide to retire in the near future, the Chiefs would be in a position to seamlessly transition to Njoku, who could be the future at the position. Even if Kelce returns for another season or two, Njoku would offer a quality backup and additional firepower to a tight end room that could use some depth.

Njoku’s Role in Kansas City: Backup or Future Star?

Njoku’s potential signing with the Chiefs would serve dual purposes. In the short term, he could be a solid backup tight end, providing much-needed relief for Kelce and stepping in should injury or age become an issue. However, in the long term, Njoku could be the answer to replacing Kelce when the time comes. The 26-year-old’s potential to step into a starring role is undeniable, especially given his athleticism and ability to make plays downfield. If the Chiefs are serious about continuing to contend for championships, finding a tight end who can step up in Kelce’s absence is critical. Njoku could fill that role and give Mahomes a new weapon in the passing game.

Njoku’s production in recent years, particularly his 2023 season, where he posted 883 receiving yards and six touchdowns, proves that he still has plenty left to give. For the Chiefs, Njoku would be an affordable option compared to signing a top-tier wide receiver, while still offering a very similar upside in terms of receiving ability. This is especially significant given the Chiefs’ struggles with Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy last season, both of whom failed to meet expectations. Kelce remained the Chiefs’ leading receiver, and it’s clear that Mahomes needs more help from his pass catchers.

The Chiefs’ Need for a Reliable Target Outside of Kelce

One of the reasons this potential partnership between the Chiefs and Njoku makes so much sense is the Chiefs’ ongoing need for more reliable targets outside of Travis Kelce. Despite having a potent quarterback in Mahomes, the Chiefs’ wide receiver group has struggled with consistency. With Rice and Worthy both underperforming in 2025, the Chiefs need a tight end who can fill the void and become a consistent target for Mahomes. Njoku’s skill set would provide just that. He has the ability to work the middle of the field, get down the seam, and stretch the defense. This type of production is exactly what Mahomes needs as he looks to build a more balanced and explosive offense.

Even if Kelce does return for another season, Njoku would not find himself on the sidelines for long. Mahomes has a history of targeting his tight ends in a major way, and Njoku would undoubtedly see plenty of opportunities in a secondary role. This could even help relieve some of the pressure off Kelce, ensuring that he doesn’t have to shoulder the load alone.

The Chiefs Need to Make Njoku a Top Priority This Offseason

As the Chiefs look to strengthen their roster ahead of another potential Super Bowl run, adding Njoku should be a top priority this offseason. He is a player with the talent and physical tools to be a major asset in the Chiefs’ offense, and his affordability compared to top-tier receivers only adds to his appeal. Njoku could be the missing piece in the Chiefs’ offense, offering another reliable target for Mahomes while simultaneously providing a long-term solution at tight end.

As we head into free agency, David Njoku‘s potential departure from Cleveland presents an exciting opportunity for the Chiefs. Whether he becomes a backup to Kelce or eventually steps into a starting role, his addition would be a game-changer for Kansas City. If the Chiefs are serious about maintaining their championship window, they should waste no time in making Njoku a top priority.

Nick Roesch covers the NFL for Heavy Sports, focusing on the Kansas City Chiefs, Green Bay Packers, and Los Angeles Chargers. With over a decade of sports journalism experience, Roesch brings in-depth coverage and expert analysis on all things NFL. His comprehensive understanding of the game makes him a trusted source for all NFL-related content.

Key Takeaways:

• David Njoku could provide the Chiefs with much-needed stability at tight end, whether as a backup or as a future starter.

• The Chiefs’ struggles at wide receiver and tight end make Njoku an ideal fit, giving Mahomes another reliable target in the passing game.

• Njoku’s experience and 2023 season performance demonstrate his potential to be a major contributor to the Chiefs’ offense, whether alongside Travis Kelce or as his eventual replacement.

Stay tuned for more updates on the Chiefs’ offseason moves and potential free agent signings!