Story perspectives

David Njoku Signs 1-Year $8M Deal with Chargers

5/11/2026

Summary

David Njoku Joins Chargers

David Njoku signed a one-year, $8 million contract with the Los Angeles Chargers.
He joins a Chargers tight-end group that includes Oronde Gadsden II and Charlie Kolar.
Njoku left the Cleveland Browns after nine seasons with 4,062 yards, 34 touchdowns in 118 games.
He recorded 81 receptions for 882 yards and six touchdowns in 2023 (Pro Bowl) and 33 catches for 293 yards and four touchdowns in 12 games in 2025.

Summary

Njoku Signs

Offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel called Njoku “another toy” to run multiple-tight-end formations, widening the Chargers’ red-zone options.
Njoku posted a 20% target share in 2025 and 33% in 2023-24 behind tight end Oronde Gadsden, with 36 targets and 25 receptions in 15.5 games.
The one-year, up-to-$8 million contract adds leadership and flexibility, and may push the Chargers to use two-tight-end sets after receiver Keenan Allen’s departure, limiting receiver Tre’ Harris’s upside.

History

Historical Context

In 2011 the New England Patriots used a two-tight-end system that helped Rob Gronkowski set an NFL record with 1,327 receiving yards and 17 touchdowns, the first tight end to lead the league in TD receptions. That success inspired other teams, and in 2024 the Los Angeles Chargers signed David Njoku to add a second tight end, hoping to replicate the Patriots’ red-zone efficiency.

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David Njoku Joins Chargers

David Njoku signed a one-year, $8 million contract with the Los Angeles Chargers.
He joins a Chargers tight-end group that includes Oronde Gadsden II and Charlie Kolar.
Njoku left the Cleveland Browns after nine seasons with 4,062 yards, 34 touchdowns in 118 games.
He recorded 81 receptions for 882 yards and six touchdowns in 2023 (Pro Bowl) and 33 catches for 293 yards and four touchdowns in 12 games in 2025.

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