A couple of months later than had been expected, David Njoku's future in Cleveland has been secured by the tight end agreeing to a new four-year, $56.75million contract extension with the Browns.
Njoku had been in talks with the Browns, 19/2 to win AFC Championship, for some time with a resolution sought before the legal tampering period for free agents began in March.
Njoku going nowhere
But as talks dragged on the Browns made two moves that seemed to signal their intent on keeping the former first-round draft pick.
Cleveland used their franchise tag to secure his future for at least one year and released veteran tight end Austin Hooper from the final two years of his contract, incurring a costly $13million cap hit on that move.
Related NFL News
NFL - US Sports: Shanahan offers update on 49ers plans
NFL - US Sports: Fields' dedication impressing Bears team-mate
NFL - US Sports: Wilson reveals role models
NFL - US Sports: McDaniel content with Dolphins' competition
Njoku lands huge deal
Under the tag, Njoku was set to make $10.931million in 2022, but according to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport and NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, per a source, he will receive $28m guaranteed on signing the contract and average $14.1875m per season.
That would represent the fourth-highest average in the NFL at his position, per NFL Research.
Rapoport adds that Njoku will receive $28million guaranteed upon signing the contract. The deal nets Njoku $14.1875million per season - the fourth-highest average in the NFL at his position, per NFL Research.
Njoku, who requested a trade in 2020 due to lack of playing time but rescinded it later that year, produced 36 receptions for 475 yards and four touchdowns in 16 games.
The 25-year-old has totalled 148 receptions for 1,754 yards and 15 TDs through five seasons I Ohio.
Discover more from the world's favourite online betting brand
Win more with our US sports parlay bonus
