Cleveland Browns tight end David Njoku is finally showing us what he is truly capable of this season. A perennial breakout candidate, it appears Njoku has realized the potential that fantasy managers had been waiting on for years. Through the first seven weeks, Njoku was the TE4 in PPR formats, providing immense production for the managers who drafted him.
Sadly, Njoku's momentum has been halted by an ankle injury he suffered last week versus Baltimore. Njoku was having a strong game, having made seven catches for 71 yards before exiting the contest.
Will Njoku be able to suit up against Cincinnati tonight? Should fantasy managers consider adding and starting his backup, Harrison Bryant? Continue reading for updates on both Njoku and Bryant.
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Is David Njoku Playing In Week 8 Against the Bengals?
David Njoku suffered a high ankle sprain in the third quarter against the Ravens last Sunday. It was initially reported by ESPN's Adam Schefter that Njoku would miss several weeks while recovering from the injury.
Further testing revealed that Browns’ TE David Njoku suffered a high ankle sprain that will not require surgery but is expected to sideline him 2-5 weeks, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 24, 2022
However, although Njoku did not practice at all this week, by the time Friday rolled around he still had not been officially ruled out for the team's Monday night contest with the Bengals. That changed on Friday, though, as it was unsurprisingly announced that he would miss the game.
CB Denzel Ward (concussion, TE David Njoku (ankle) and OG Wyatt Teller (calf) all ruled OUT for MNF vs. Cincy #Browns
— Jake Trotter (@Jake_Trotter) October 29, 2022
Njoku's absence will negatively affect the Cleveland offense as the Browns attempt to take down their division rival.
Is Harrison Bryant Starting In Week 8 Against the Bengals?
Harrison Bryant, a third-year tight end out of Florida Atlantic, will take over Njoku's spot as the team's starting tight end for the time being. The Browns may also be without tight end Pharaoh Brown, who is questionable with a concussion/neck injury. His absence would lessen Bryant's competition at the TE position even further.
Bryant has made 59 catches for 585 yards and six touchdowns in his short career so far. His best game in 2022 to this point was his Week 2 outing against the Jets in which he made three catches for 45 yards.
Should I Start Harrison Bryant This Week in Fantasy Football?
One thing is for certain: if you have Njoku in your lineup, you should remove him as quickly as possible. He will not be playing.
Chances are strong that you have already started a tight end this week. However, if you were counting on Njoku to play and did not catch the announcement that he would not, Harrison Bryant would be a wise last-minute addition. The other options on the waiver wire that will be in action tonight are unlikely to have the same potential. Unless Hayden Hurst remains available in your league, Bryant should be who you target. He's not an ideal starter for your team, but under the circumstances, he would be the best choice.
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