The Cleveland Browns will be without a key piece of their offense this Sunday, as tight end David Njoku has been ruled out for Week 15 against the Chicago Bears due to a knee injury. Njoku went down during last week’s win over the Tennessee Titans, though he still managed to haul in a short touchdown before exiting. His absence leaves a noticeable gap in the Browns’ passing attack - but it also opens the door for a rising rookie to step into the spotlight.
Enter Harold Fannin Jr., a name Browns fans are starting to get very familiar with. The rookie tight end has been steadily carving out a bigger role in the offense, and with Njoku sidelined, Fannin is expected to be the primary option at the position this week. And based on recent performances, he looks ready for the moment.
Fannin is coming off the best game of his young career - an 8-catch, 114-yard outing that included a touchdown on 11 targets. That kind of production isn’t just impressive for a rookie tight end; it’s the kind of performance that earns trust from a quarterback and coaching staff. And with Cleveland’s offense gaining traction under Shedeur Sanders, Fannin’s timing couldn’t be better.
David Njoku (knee), Dylan Sampson (calf, hand) ruled out for Week 15.
— Underdog NFL (@UnderdogNFL) December 12, 2025
Sanders, the rookie quarterback, has brought a spark to the Browns’ passing game in recent weeks. While the offense hasn’t always been consistent this season, there’s been a noticeable uptick in rhythm and confidence with Sanders under center. That bodes well for Fannin, who’s already tied for second on the team with four touchdown receptions - and has found the end zone in back-to-back games.
Njoku, a veteran presence and one of the more athletic tight ends in the league, had played in 12 games this season, totaling 33 catches for 293 yards and four scores. But what stands out is the drop in targets - just 48 this year compared to 97 in 11 games last season. Whether that’s a result of scheme changes, quarterback shifts, or simply the emergence of younger talent like Fannin, it’s clear the Browns have been evolving offensively.
Now, with Njoku officially ruled out, all eyes shift to how Cleveland adjusts. Expect Fannin to be heavily involved again - especially against a Bears defense that’s allowed five touchdowns to tight ends this season. If the Browns continue to build on their recent momentum, Fannin could be in line for another big day.
This is a pivotal stretch for Cleveland as they fight to stay in the playoff picture, and getting production from young players like Fannin will be crucial. The opportunity is there. Now it’s about capitalizing - and based on what we’ve seen lately, Fannin looks more than capable of doing just that.