NFL: One breakout star for each team in the 2018 season
. TE, Cleveland Browns. . David Njoku. . team. 53
When looking for the best young tight ends in the NFL, Cleveland Browns sophomore David Njoku should be in the conversation. Drafted at just 20 years old, Njoku became just the fifth tight end to record 30 receptions, 300 yards at age 21 season: Tony Gonzalez, Rob Gronkowski, Jason Witten, Aaron Hernandez, and Njoku. Three of those players are Canton-bound at some point in their life.
Making only five starts last year Njoku played only 46.8% of offensive snaps for Cleveland despite being one of three first-round picks, playing behind Darren Fells early. Njoku lit it up against the Jets with two terrific catches, one of which went for a touchdown, as shown below.
njoku's peak years are going to be stuff of legends imo pic.twitter.com/p8dYRAKcaE
— Tyler Morales (@TylerMorales0) May 22, 2018
As the starter entering this year and more competent quarterbacks on the roster, Njoku could take a major step forward and solidify himself as a top-10 tight end. His 386 receiving yards were outside the top-20 for tight ends, but the extended playing time and stronger talent around him could push him to the next level.