Cleveland Browns: Top 5 fantasy football impact players

TAMPA, FL - OCTOBER 21: Baker Mayfield #6 hands off to Nick Chubb #24 of the Cleveland Browns during a game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on October 21, 2018 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
TAMPA, FL - OCTOBER 21: Baker Mayfield #6 hands off to Nick Chubb #24 of the Cleveland Browns during a game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on October 21, 2018 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images)
(Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images) /

3. David Njoku, TE

This is the year of David Njoku. In 2018, he already finished in the top 10 of fantasy tight ends and, now surrounded by talent, the mismatch nightmare should be able to exploit the seams this year. Not to mention Njoku was the Browns’ favorite red-zone target last season, a role the 6-4 high jump national champion is well adept for.

He finished his 2018 season with 56 catches, 639 yards, and four touchdowns for Cleveland, and saw an increase of targets up from 60 to 88 from his rookie to sophomore season. That number of targets may take a dip, but Njoku’s production should skyrocket.

Do not be shocked to see Njoku put up double-digit touchdowns this season and inch close to the 1,000-yard mark this season. Njoku nipped his issue with dropped passes in the bud in the final eight games last season and, as a result, saw his yards after catch and receiving yardage numbers increase.

Beckham Jr., Callaway and Higgins should pull defenders away from the middle of the field this season, leaving Njoku matched up one-on-one against linebackers or safeties, ones he will win, or allow him to sit in holes in the zone. With Mayfield’s arm strength and pinpoint accuracy, if Njoku is open, he will be hit, and this upcoming season, this should happen often.