Njoku’s production took a massive step back in 2024 after Joe Flacco helped him reach new heights in 2023. Injuries didn’t help the situation, as Njoku was held to just 11 games this season, but his 7.9 YPR marked a new low, while his 505 yards were his fewest since 2021. Njoku will now have all offseason to get right, and will hopefully benefit from an upgrade at quarterback with Deshaun Watson’s future as a starter firmly in doubt. Now ruled out for Week 18, Jordan Akins will likely draw the start in the Browns’ season-finale.

With just one practice left in the week, it certainly looks like Njoku has played his last snap of the season. He has dealt with several injuries this year and the ankle issue has already cost him one game. Jordan Akins will be a punt TE2 option once Njoku is ruled out.

That makes four missed practices in a row and a Week 17 absence for Njoku since suffering the knee injury against the Bengals in Week 16. Jordan Akins could have desperation/DFS appeal in Week 18’s game against the Ravens if Njoku doesn’t suit up. Browns coach Kevin Stefanski only offered a “we’ll see” on Njoku this week.

Dorian Thompson-Robinson will be without two of his top receiving weapons as the 3-12 Browns take on the playoff-hopeful Dolphins. The Browns also declared WR Cedric Tillman, CB Chigozie Anusiem, DE Ogbo Okoronkwo and QB Jameis Winston (shoulder) inactive, though Winston will serve as the emergency third quarterback.