Njoku Shines Under Bright Lights: David Njoku’s Record-Breaking Performance Ignites Cleveland Browns’ Playoff Hopes

The spotlight is firmly on Cleveland Browns tight end David Njoku as the team heads to London for its Week 5 showdown against the Minnesota Vikings at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. FULL PARTICIPATION DESPITE KNEE CONCERN After appearing on the injury report earlier in the week with a knee issue, Njoku logged consecutive full practices and carries no game-status designation for Sunday’s kickoff, ending fears that he might sit out the international matchup. That clearance keeps the sixth-year veteran on pace to start all five games this season. 2025 PRODUCTION SO FAR Through four contests, Njoku has hauled in 14 of 19 targets for 128 yards while averaging 9.1 yards per reception, but he is still searching for his first touchdown of the campaign. His catch rate (73.7 percent) and yards after catch (53) remain encouraging metrics as quarterback Deshaun Watson looks to jump-start a passing attack ranked 21st in the league. TRADE RUMORS GAIN STEAM Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox recently listed Njoku as the Browns’ most attractive trade chip ahead of the late-October deadline, citing the team’s surplus of tight ends and the league-wide demand for red-zone threats. While Cleveland has not publicly entertained offers, a productive outing on the European stage could further elevate the veteran’s market value. FANTASY FOOTBALL OUTLOOK Because Njoku has yet to hit pay dirt, some managers are debating whether to keep him in Week 5 lineups. The Vikings have surrendered an average of 5.6 receptions and 59 yards per game to tight ends this year, the ninth-most generous mark in the NFL, making Njoku a viable streaming option for fantasy owners needing upside. The early 9:30 a.m. ET kickoff also provides a built-in contingency: if Njoku underperforms, managers still have the afternoon slate to pivot. WHAT TO WATCH IN LONDON • Red-zone chemistry: Watson targeted Njoku twice inside the 20 last week; converting early chances could change the Browns’ offensive complexion. • Pass-blocking duties: With right tackle Jack Conklin still on injured reserve, expect Njoku to chip edge rusher Danielle Hunter before releasing into routes. • International showcase: A strong performance on foreign soil often moves the needle in All-Star balloting and mid-season award chatter. BOTTOM LINE Healthy, heavily involved, and surrounded by swirling trade talk, David Njoku enters Week 5 as one of the NFL’s most intriguing storylines. Whether he solidifies his role in Cleveland or boosts his appeal to would-be suitors, Sunday’s London clash figures to shape the next chapter in the athletic tight end’s 2025 season.