Cleveland Browns Host 3 Free Agent Tight Ends

The Cleveland Browns are seeking reinforcements at the tight end position following an ankle injury to starter David Njoku during their Week 1 loss to the Dallas Cowboys. 

Njoku, who had four catches for 44 yards before exiting after a 29-yard catch-and-run, is considered week-to-week with an uncertain recovery timeline. 

As a result, the Browns have hosted several free-agent tight ends for workouts, including Geoff Swaim, Irv Smith Jr., and Tommy Sweeney, according to NFL insider Jeremy Fowler. 

Cleveland, initially looking to bolster its tight end depth, now views the need for reinforcements as urgent.

The #Browns are hosting several tight ends for free agent visits/workouts today, including Irv Smith, Tommy Sweeney and Geoff Swaim, per sources.

Cleveland was in the market for a tight end before David Nkoju hurt his ankle Week 1. Now, it's a necessity.

— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) September 10, 2024

Geoff Swaim stands out as the most experienced option of the group, having played 14 games for the Arizona Cardinals last season, contributing both as a run-blocker and pass-catcher with 10 receptions for 94 yards. 

Swaim's experience with the Dallas Cowboys, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Tennessee Titans adds further appeal, particularly for a Browns offense that relies on tight ends for both blocking and receiving. 

Irv Smith Jr., who spent the 2023 season with the Bengals, and Tommy Sweeney, who last appeared in a game in 2022, were also present at the workout, though their primary contributions would likely be as depth behind backup Jordan Akins.

Patriots brought TE Irv Smith Jr in for a tryout. Loved him in the 2019 draft as a F-back presence.

He was a very capable receiver at Alabama, but is coming off a lackluster season for Cincinnati. pic.twitter.com/p3kyYQdERp

— ZeeBee (@BellinoZee) September 7, 2024

With Njoku's status unclear and Akins set to take on the lead role, the Browns' efforts to evaluate these free agents suggest they are preparing for Njoku's absence to extend beyond one game. 

Swaim's veteran presence and blocking ability make him a strong candidate to fill the void, while Smith and Sweeney offer additional receiving potential if needed.

Photo Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images