The Washington Commanders are heading into a pivotal offseason, and there’s no room for half-measures. With new general manager Adam Peters at the helm, the front office has a long to-do list - and near the top of it is giving quarterback Jayden Daniels the kind of supporting cast that can help him take the next step. That means bolstering the defense, yes, but it also means finding real answers on offense, especially at tight end.
Right now, that position is a bit of a question mark. Zach Ertz, who brought veteran savvy and leadership, is unlikely to return after suffering a torn ACL late in the season.
Ben Sinnott, two years in, is still more of a mystery than a known commodity. John Bates is a solid blocker, but not someone who’s going to stretch the field or move the chains consistently.
And Colson Yankoff looks like a core special-teamer, not someone you're scheming touches for on Sundays.
So Peters has a decision to make - and a potential solution may have just hit the market.
David Njoku: A Proven Playmaker Hits the Open Market
David Njoku, the athletic tight end who’s spent the past nine years with the Cleveland Browns, appears ready for a fresh start. In an emotional farewell posted to Instagram, Njoku thanked the Browns organization, his teammates, and the city of Cleveland - signaling that his time in Ohio has likely come to an end.
It’s not a shocking development. With the emergence of rookie Harold Fannin Jr., the Browns have a new face at the position.
But that doesn’t mean Njoku’s value has diminished. Far from it.
At 30, Njoku still has the tools to be a difference-maker. Yes, he’s dealt with some injuries in recent seasons, but when healthy, he’s a matchup nightmare.
He’s big, fast, and dangerous after the catch - exactly the kind of weapon that can thrive in a modern NFL offense. And with new offensive coordinator David Blough expected to install a more West Coast-style system in Washington, a tight end who can work the middle of the field and be a red zone threat becomes even more important.
Why Njoku Could Be a Fit in Washington
For Jayden Daniels, Year 3 is shaping up to be a defining one. The Commanders need to do everything they can to set him up for success, and that includes giving him reliable targets who can win quickly and create after the catch. Njoku checks both boxes.
He’s not just a safety valve - he’s a legitimate playmaker. And while the Commanders might explore younger or more budget-friendly options, there’s something to be said for proven productivity.
According to Spotrac, Njoku is projected to command a two-year, $19.98 million deal - that’s just under $10 million per season. For a team with cap space and a young quarterback on a rookie deal, that’s a manageable number for a player who can immediately elevate the offense.
And make no mistake: Njoku would elevate this offense. His ability to stretch the seam, win in contested situations, and provide a red zone presence would give Daniels a versatile weapon he’s lacked. Add in the leadership and experience he brings, and it’s easy to see why Washington should be taking a long look.
The Bottom Line
The Commanders have a chance to reshape their identity this offseason. That starts with building around Jayden Daniels - not just with protection, but with pass-catchers who can make his job easier.
David Njoku might not be a long-term solution, but he’s a proven one. And in a tight end room full of question marks, that could make all the difference.
There will be other names in the mix, no doubt. But if Peters and the front office are serious about giving Daniels every chance to succeed, Njoku deserves to be near the top of their list.