The Cleveland Browns have selected Cincinnati tight end Joe Royer with their third pick in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL Draft. The former Ohio State-to-Cincinnati tight end now addresses another need on the roster after the departure of long-timer David Njoku.

Throughout his college career, Royer racked up 962 yards and seven touchdowns on 83 catches. Nearly all of that production came after Royer transferred from Ohio State, where he did not see playing time, to Cincinnati. His 2024 season was more productive, but he finished with 416 yards and four touchdowns this past season for the Bearcats.

New #Browns TE Joe Royer scouting report pic.twitter.com/jJLCwAfXbT

With Harold Fannin Jr. being more of a flex tight end, Royer has a real chance to be the day one starting in-line tight end for the Browns. Barring a move for a veteran, which could be on the table given how late the Browns added a tight end in the NFL Draft, that could very much be on the table.

If the Browns do not add an established veteran, however, Royer could see a massive role as a rookie.

This article originally appeared on Browns Wire: Browns select former Ohio State, Cincinnati TE Joe Royer in NFL Draft