Patriots Insider Lists Former First-Round Pick As Possible Option For New England In 2026

It’s never too early to start thinking about players the Patriots could add to boost the roster next season.

NBC Sports Boston’s Patriots insider Phil Perry identified some upcoming free agents who could be solid additions for New England, naming Cleveland Browns tight end David Njoku as an option.

The Browns selected Njoku in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft, and he has played a significant role in their offense over the past nine seasons.

Cleveland’s rookie tight end, Harold Fannin Jr. is having a promising season, which may lead the Browns to reconsider extending Njoku.

If the Browns don’t extend Njoku, he could be a nice fit for New England since Austin Hooper will be a free agent after the season.

Njoku hasn’t had the chance to play with top quarterbacks during his time in Cleveland, except for a solid season alongside Baker Mayfield and a handful of games with Joe Flacco in 2023.

Njoku could truly thrive if he had the opportunity to play alongside a talented quarterback like Drake Maye. Pursuing his signing next season could be a smart move for the Patriots.