When Is David Njoku Coming Back - Fantasy Football Injury Return Update for Week 16 (2024)

It is crunch time for fantasy playoffs, and every lineup decision matters more than ever. If you are a David Njoku manager, you are likely hoping for some good news heading into Week 16. The eighth-year player's absence in Week 15 was a blow, especially with his trustworthy production all season.

Cleveland faces the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 16, and head coach Kevin Stefanski has expressed optimism about Njoku's potential return.

The hamstring injury must be monitored closely, but his availability could be a game-changer for your fantasy playoff matchup.

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David Njoku Injury Update for Fantasy Football

Njoku did not suit up for the Browns in their Week 15 game versus the Chiefs. The tight end was sidelined by a hamstring injury that kept him out of practice all week. While listed as questionable heading into the game, it became clear he would not be ready after missing every practice leading up to Sunday.

David Njoku is a light in the darknesspic.twitter.com/Wgktj0qMfR

— Browns Film Breakdown (@BrownsFilmBDN) December 8, 2024

In his absence, the Browns turned to Jordan Akins, who caught three passes for 30 yards in the team's loss. Blake Whiteheart was also involved but did not see meaningful opportunities. Njoku's superior talent and established chemistry with his quarterbacks make him indispensable to Cleveland's offense when healthy.

According to ESPN's Daniel Oyefusi, Stefanski is "hopeful" Njoku can return for Week 16's contest with the Cincinnati Bengals. Fantasy managers should monitor practice reports throughout the week to see if the former first-rounder is progressing toward a full return.

David Njoku Fantasy Football Outlook

Njoku's return would significantly boost fantasy teams entering the playoff semifinals. Despite the quarterback carousel in Cleveland, the tight end has remained a dependable TE1 option this season, ranking TE10 in PPR formats.

With Jameis Winston often airing it out this year, Njoku flourished. However, Dorian Thompson-Robinson took over as the starter in Week 15 and is now set to start in Week 16.

With Thompson-Robinson under center, Njoku's value may take a hit. Still, even with subpar quarterback play, the tight end has been extremely productive this season. He is a vital piece of this offense and will hopefully serve as a security blanket for the quarterback.

Dorian Thompson-Robinson has averaged 3.7 yards per attempt in his short NFL career.

That is the lowest mark in the Super Bowl era among all quarterbacks with at least 125 pass attempts.

— Ian Hartitz (@Ihartitz) December 17, 2024

If the tight end is cleared to play, he should be back in your lineup regardless of who is under center. His consistent production and ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities make him a must-start tight end.

If Njoku cannot go, streaming a tight end from waivers such as Pat Freiermuth, Hunter Henry, Noah Gray, and Mike Gesicki is suggested. Hopefully, you found a suitable replacement for the 28-year-old last week.

Stay tuned for updates throughout Week 16, and do not hesitate to pivot if Njoku's status remains in doubt. Playoffs are no time for uncertainty at such a crucial position.

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