The Los Angeles Chargers have made a significant move to bolster their offensive arsenal, agreeing to a one-year deal with veteran tight end David Njoku worth up to $8 million, according to NFL Media. This signing gives quarterback Justin Herbert a reliable new target as the team looks to strengthen its supporting cast for the 2026 season.
Njoku, 29, is entering his 10th NFL season and will be suiting up for a team other than the Cleveland Browns for the first time in his career. The Miami product was drafted by Cleveland with the 29th overall pick in 2017 and spent nine seasons there, establishing himself as a consistent pass-catching threat despite often inconsistent quarterback play.
His standout year came in 2023, when he earned a Pro Bowl selection after hauling in 81 receptions for 882 yards and six touchdowns—all career highs. That performance showcased the kind of dynamic playmaking ability that makes tight ends such valuable assets in today's NFL, especially for a young quarterback like Herbert who thrives with reliable options over the middle.
However, injuries have been a concern over the past two seasons. Njoku was limited to 11 games in 2024 and 12 in 2025, with a knee issue ultimately landing him on season-ending injured reserve after Week 14 last year. Despite those setbacks, his track record of production when healthy makes him a low-risk, high-reward addition for Los Angeles.
Njoku had been a free agent since the start of the new league year, and he made it clear early on that he was moving on from Cleveland. In early February, he announced that "the time for me to find a new home has come." Now, he's found that home with the Chargers, joining a tight end room that already features rising second-year player Oronde Gadsden II. As a rookie, Gadsden impressed with 49 catches for 664 yards and three touchdowns, giving Herbert another young weapon to develop alongside the veteran Njoku.
The Chargers' tight end depth also includes Charlie Kolar, Tanner McLachlan, Thomas Yassmin, and undrafted rookies Evan Svoboda and Jarand Bradley. With Njoku's experience and proven ability to produce, he could be the steadying presence this group needs to take the next step in 2026.