Chargers Sign Veteran TE David Njoku to One-Year Deal Worth Up to $8M.

The Los Angeles Chargers have added a veteran presence to their tight end room, agreeing to a one-year deal worth up to $8 million with former Cleveland Browns standout David Njoku, sources confirmed Monday. Njoku, 29, entered free agency earlier this offseason after his contract with Cleveland voided in February, bringing an end to a nine-year tenure with the franchise that drafted him in the first round back in 2017. He now joins a Chargers tight end group led by second-year player Oronde Gadsden, who emerged as a reliable target during his rookie campaign, and veteran Charlie Kolar, signed in free agency. Njoku’s arrival adds both experience and receiving upside to a unit that had lacked a proven pass-catching option. During his time in Cleveland, Njoku established himself as one of the most productive tight ends in franchise history. He ranks second among Browns tight ends in both receptions (384) and touchdown catches (34), trailing only Hall of Famer Ozzie Newsome. However, durability has been a concern in recent seasons. Njoku has missed 11 games over the past two years, and his production dipped in 2025. He finished last season with 33 receptions for 293 yards and four touchdowns, averaging a career-low 8.9 yards per catch outside of an injury-shortened 2019 campaign. Despite that decline, Njoku’s upside remains evident. He earned Pro Bowl honors as recently as 2023 after posting career highs with 81 catches, 882 yards, and six touchdowns.

In Los Angeles, Njoku is expected to serve as an additional weapon for franchise quarterback Justin Herbert. His skill set could also give first-year offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel more flexibility, particularly in multi-tight end formations designed to stretch defenses. For a Chargers team looking to expand its offensive options, the move represents a low-risk, potentially high-reward addition as they continue shaping their roster for the 2026 season.