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Fantasy Football 2017: Top 5 rookie tight end fits

By James Simpson

Sep 5, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Mississippi Rebels tight end Evan Engram (17) runs with the ball against the Florida State Seminoles during the first half at Camping World Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 5, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Mississippi Rebels tight end Evan Engram (17) runs with the ball against the Florida State Seminoles during the first half at Camping World Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 28, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Miami Hurricanes tight end David Njoku (86) scores a touchdown in the second half against the West Virginia Mountaineers in the Russell Athletic Bowl at Camping World Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 28, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Miami Hurricanes tight end David Njoku (86) scores a touchdown in the second half against the West Virginia Mountaineers in the Russell Athletic Bowl at Camping World Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports /

3. David Njoku, Cleveland Browns

The Cleveland Browns made it a point to target the most athletic prospects they could get their hands on in this year’s draft, and Njoku is no exception. He’s only 20 years old, but has potential to be one of the best in the game. His combination of ridiculously long arms and astonishing jumping ability can’t be taught, and once he refines his game he’ll be scary to face up against.

Njoku is a “project”, having only started nine games for the Miami Hurricanes, but has the physical ability to learn on the job and the Browns likely won’t hesitate to get him involved. In fact, he was so under-utilized in college that he only had more than 86 yards in a game once, and topped five catches in a game on just two occasions. He simply needs reps, but is immediately a player who has the ability to create big plays, unlike some of his Browns teammates.

From a fantasy perspective, it’s still a little up in the air as to how he will be used. Veteran Gary Barnidge was released soon after Njoku was selected, so the rookie should have a clear path to starting reps and targets. However, will the team try to slowly ease him into professional football? Maybe, but I can’t imagine they wait too long. Since his upside is astronomical, he’ll be a late flier in many of my leagues.

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