The Tampa Bay Buccaneers kept their tight end room relatively quiet this offseason, opting to re-sign Cade Otton and add a late-round draft pick. But if they're serious about upgrading the position, one intriguing name remains available on the free-agent market: David Njoku.
Njoku recently became a free agent after finishing a four-year deal with the Cleveland Browns that averaged around $13.7 million per season. According to Spotrac's market value projections, his next contract could land closer to two years and roughly $20 million—about $10 million annually. That's a significant price tag, but one that could be manageable for Tampa Bay.
The Bucs currently have just over $11 million in available cap space, per Spotrac's 2026 cap table. On the surface, that doesn't leave much room, especially with draft picks still needing to be signed. However, NFL cap mechanics offer flexibility. A short-term deal for Njoku could be structured with a lower Year 1 cap hit through a prorated signing bonus, making it financially realistic without forcing a major roster move. The team could also create additional space by restructuring or extending existing contracts. In short, they could make it work if they wanted to.
The real question is whether they should. Njoku would immediately transform Tampa Bay's offense. Over the past two seasons, his usage and production have been consistent with solid starting tight ends across the league, averaging over four receptions per game with steady red-zone involvement. That's something the Bucs currently lack behind Cade Otton. Njoku would provide that spark immediately.
He also brings something else the room desperately needs: experience. At 29 years old with eight NFL seasons under his belt, he's a proven veteran who has thrived in multiple offensive systems and handled a significant role. That matters for a young offensive group still finding its identity. Plus, he already has chemistry with quarterback Baker Mayfield from their time together in Cleveland—a connection that could pay immediate dividends.
Spending close to $10 million per year on a TE2 isn't something every team would be comfortable with, but for a Bucs squad looking to take the next step, Njoku could be the missing piece that elevates their entire offensive attack.