David Njoku of the Cleveland Browns Fantasy Outlook with Deshaun Watson as QB

2024 NFL Fantasy Football: Assessing David Njoku’s Value with Deshaun Watson at Quarterback

Njoku, the Browns’ talented tight end, has been a player with immense potential but has often left fantasy managers wanting more. As we approach the 2024 NFL season, the question on many minds is whether Njoku can establish himself as a reliable TE1 in fantasy football, especially with Watson at quarterback. Let’s dive into Njoku’s outlook, considering both his past performance and the potential impact of Watson under center.

The Watson-Njoku Connection: Can It Elevate Njoku to TE1 Status?

Watson’s presence at quarterback is a double-edged sword for Njoku. On one hand, Watson is a talented playmaker with the ability to extend plays and create opportunities for his receivers. On the other hand, Watson’s chemistry with Njoku has been inconsistent, leading to questions about whether Njoku can truly break into the top tier of fantasy tight ends.

Buy or Sell: David Njoku as a TE1 with Watson at Quarterback?

Verdict: Sell. While Njoku has the athleticism and skill set to be a top-10 fantasy tight end, the competition at the position is fierce. With players like Dallas Goedert of the Philadelphia Eagles, Dalton Schultz of the Houston Texans, and even emerging talents like Dalton Kincaid of the Buffalo Bills vying for top-10 status, Njoku’s path to TE1 is far from guaranteed. However, he is still likely to finish in the 8-12 range, making him a solid TE2 with the upside for more if Watson can find a consistent rhythm with him.

Njoku’s 2023 Performance: A Sign of Things to Come?

Last season, Njoku showed flashes of the player many expected him to become, finishing as a mid-range TE1 in most formats. His ability to make contested catches and serve as a red-zone threat was evident, but the Browns’ offense as a whole struggled with consistency. The arrival of Watson, who played the final six games of the season, brought some hope, but Watson’s play was rusty after his long absence from the league.

Njoku’s ranking has dipped slightly in preseason drafts, reflecting some skepticism among fantasy managers. However, with a full offseason for Watson to regain his form and integrate further into the Browns’ system, Njoku could be poised for a bounce-back year.

Betting Insight: Njoku’s Over/Under on Touchdowns

Many sportsbooks have set the over/under on Njoku’s touchdown total for 2024 at around 4.5 to 5.5. This number seems achievable, given Njoku’s role in the red zone and Watson’s potential to improve. Bettors looking for value might consider betting the over, especially if they believe Watson will regain his Pro Bowl form and the Browns’ offense will operate more efficiently.

Injury Concerns: The X-Factor in Njoku’s Fantasy Value

One concern that always lingers with Njoku is his injury history. Over the years, Njoku has struggled to stay on the field, which has limited his fantasy upside. However, when healthy, he has shown the ability to produce at a high level. This risk is something fantasy managers will need to weigh when considering Njoku as their starting tight end.

Buy or Sell: Njoku Stays Healthy and Productive in 2024?

Verdict: Buy. While Njoku’s injury history is concerning, it’s not uncommon for tight ends to miss a game or two over the course of a season. If Njoku can avoid major injuries, he has the potential to be a consistent contributor in fantasy lineups. Given his lower draft cost compared to other tight ends, Njoku presents a value pick for those willing to bet on his health and upside.

Final Thoughts

Njoku’s fantasy value in 2024 hinges largely on his connection with Deshaun Watson and his ability to stay healthy. While the path to becoming a top-10 tight end is challenging, Njoku has the talent to finish as a TE1 if everything breaks right. For fantasy managers, Njoku represents a high-upside option with some risk, but one that could pay off handsomely if Watson and the Browns’ offense click this season. Whether you’re buying or selling Njoku as a TE1, he’s a player worth monitoring closely as the season unfolds.