Washington Football Team: Three trade deadline deals to consider

Trade No. 2 – David Njoku 

Washington needs playmakers. They need guys who can win against man coverage. In Njoku’s last full season of play (2018), not only did he average almost two yards of YAC more than expected, but he also averaged 3.1 yards of separation per route run, according to Next Gen Stats.

Since 2018, injuries and frustration with the Browns have been evident with Njoku. With Cleveland signing Austin Hooper long-term, and with the addition of Harrison Bryant, Njoku’s worth to that Browns offense is lost in the shadows.

These things being considered, Washington would be doing themselves a disservice if they didn’t at least call about David Njoku. Especially if they’ll be acquiring him at a discount.

Despite denying recent trade requests, it’s been evident that Njoku has been upset with his lack of usage in Cleveland. Before injuries had taken him out of his element, he looked like he was developing into one of the premier receiving tight ends in the NFL.

Njoku’s promise has been shown in a plethora of ways. He has a unique ability with the ball in his hands to extend plays. His yard after catch numbers from a tight end (306 in 2018) ranked him seventh among all tight ends.

Njoku showed that he can be a problem for opposing defenses against man coverage, and in the short passing game. Over half of his receptions in his career have gone for first downs, he’s displayed a dynamic ability to be a chain mover at this position, both catching at the sticks and beyond.

Despite this, Njoku hasn’t really found his fit in the Cleveland Browns offense. His blocking hasn’t improved a ton, and injuries have hurt his development tremendously as he’s missed significant time throughout his young career.

So with production being down due to his injuries and overall lack of targets, along with his disgruntled emotions towards the organization, Cleveland has next to no leverage in a trade involving David Njoku.

This means Washington should be all-in on bringing in Njoku, especially at a discounted price.

Make no mistake about it: This is a high upside move potentially with Washington acquiring No. 85. But, in that same breath, the context must be understood.

Njoku’s dealt with injuries over the past two seasons. Including this season, he’s missed significant time. He’s a much better receiver than he is a blocker at this point, something Ron Rivera would love for him to improve on the second he puts on the burgundy and gold uniform.

In terms of the actual compensation, Cleveland has no leverage. It’s been known Njoku is unhappy despite his denial, and he’s slowly being shunned from the offense for rookie Harrison Bryant.

Similarly to what you saw with the Washington Football Team and Trent Williams, getting a third of what his actual All-Pro value is in a trade, Cleveland should not and will not get anything more than a Day 3 pick.