CLEVELAND BROWNS TIGHT END DEPTH DEPLETED BY INJURIES

Cleveland Browns head coach Todd Monken described the team's tight end position as a "concern" following a joint practice session against the Buffalo Bills. Monken acknowledged that injuries have hampered development of players at the position but expressed confidence that the group would improve before the regular season began. He highlighted Harold Fannin Jr., Blake Whiteheart and Carsen Ryan as contributors, and noted that fullback Michael Burton was expected to return within a week to provide additional pass-catching depth.

The Browns' tight end room has faced significant disruptions in recent months. Fannin, a second-year player who recorded 72 receptions, 731 receiving yards and six touchdowns in his rookie season, missed much of the offseason whilst recovering from groin surgery and was cleared about two weeks before training camp. Veteran David Njoku departed in free agency, leaving Fannin as the primary option at the position. Additional depth options have been compromised: Brenden Bates was waived with an injury designation, Carsen Ryan dealt with a foot injury, Jack Stoll remained on the injured reserve list, and fifth-round rookie Joe Royer was away from the team for personal reasons.

The Browns have made last-minute roster additions to bolster the position, though the exact identities of those signings were not specified. Monken's public acknowledgement of the concern suggests the team views the situation as a priority heading into the regular season, with fullback Michael Burton's return anticipated to ease pressure on the thin tight end group.