The Cleveland Browns came into this offseason focused on the big picture and that continued Friday as they extended David Njoku. Njoku signed a four-year deal worth $56.75 million with $28 million guaranteed.
In five seasons David Njoku has totaled 148 receptions for 1,754 yards and 15 touchdowns. This deal is not about past production, but about future potential. Njoku is someone who is all about potential. Raw athleticism paired with the physical presence (6’4″ 246 lbs) have been his calling cards since he was drafted, but not amounting too all that much. Cleveland is obviously betting on Njoku having better output now having swapped Baker Mayfield for Deshaun Watson. The offense will be more open and should allow the passing game to take the next step that it simply was unable to with Mayfield under center.
When looking at the deal form the broadest of perspectives there is a seemingly infinite number of outcomes. As mentioned above the physical traits paired with the improved quarterback situation should lead to better production from David Njoku. There is also the very real possibility that nothing changes and Njoku is what he is.
