What happened to David Njoku? Browns TE carried off the field after taking massive hit vs Cowboys

Cleveland Browns tight end David Njoku is looking to build off of the best season of his career last season. The Browns opened their 2024 season facing the Dallas Cowboys in Week 1, and Njoku left the game in the third quarter.

Njoku made a 27-yard reception and got blindsided by a Dallas defender before falling to the ground. Njoku reportedly suffered an ankle injury and is questionable about returning to the game.

Here is another angle of the hit, which shows the blindside hit with Njoku's head bouncing off the ground as he landed on the turf.

Prior to exiting the game, Njoku was the Browns' leading receiver, with four receptions for 44 yards.

The Browns have struggled against Dallas in their season opener. After scoring first and taking a 3-0 lead in the first quarter, the Browns allowed 27 unanswered points. Cowboys wide receiver Brandin Cooks scored on a 21-yard pass from quarterback Dak Prescott.

Running back Ezekiel Elliott scored in his first game after returning to Dallas. He helped them gain a 14-0 lead in the second quarter. Dallas kicker Brandon Aubrey hit two field goals.

The Cowboys went up 27-3 when returner KaVontae Turpin took a 60-yard punt for a touchdown. Cleveland scored their first touchdown in the third quarter as Deshaun Watson found wide receiver Jerry Jeudy for a 12-yard connection.

Cleveland Browns only have two active tight ends including David Njoku

Green Bay Packers v Cleveland Browns - Source: Getty

It would be bad news for the Cleveland Browns if David Njoku misses some time with his injury.

The Browns have just two active tight ends on their roster, Njoku and his backup, Jordan Akins. Akins spent last season with Cleveland and the previous five seasons with the Houston Texans. In his career, Akins has 166 receptions for 1,887 yards and eight touchdowns.

If Njoku's injury is serious, Akins would likely become the starting tight end. They would have to elevate one of their practice squad players or sign a free-agent tight end if Njoku were to miss some time.