Who Should I Start? David Njoku or Sam LaPorta

Sunday, January 4, 8:44 PM

Following Sunday's Week 18 win, Cleveland Browns tight end David Njoku said that he wants to re-sign with the team during the upcoming offseason. However, he acknowledges that it's not entirely his decision. When asked if he wanted to return to Cleveland, Njoku said, "I do, but it's not up to me." The 29-year-old missed the final four games of the regular season due to a knee injury, bringing his final 2025 stat line to just 33 catches, 293 yards, and four touchdowns. Statistically, it was his worst season since 2020, but he still made an impact as a blocker and receiver as the Browns' offense endured quarterback turmoil. For the first time in several years, Njoku also experienced major competition at the tight end position. Rookie tight end Harold Fannin Jr. emerged as one of Cleveland's top playmakers, and he figures to remain the Browns' top tight end for 2026. Therefore, if Njoku does re-sign with Cleveland, he'll likely take a pay cut to operate as the backup behind Fannin. He should have a competitive market in free agency with plenty of teams in need of tight end additions.

Wednesday, January 7, 7:18 PM

Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta (back) said earlier this week that he's entering the next stage of his rehab from back surgery, and he plans to be fully cleared before the start of training camp at the end of July, according to Richard Silva of The Detroit News. LaPorta played in only nine games in 2025 before suffering a herniated disc in his back against the Washington Commanders on Nov. 9. In addition to his rehab, the 24-year-old will be focused on trying to ink a contract extension with the Lions this offseason. LaPorta burst onto the scene in his rookie year in 2023 with 86 receptions, 889 yards, and 10 touchdowns in 17 regular-season games. He wasn't quite as good in 2024, but he still had a 60-726-7 line in 16 games. Obviously, LaPorta's production suffered in 2025 due to injury, but he'll be a prime bounce-back candidate at the TE position in 2026 for the Lions.