Sunday’s clash between the Miami Dolphins and Cleveland Browns shapes up as a faceoff of identities. Miami Dolphins with the more potent offense, Cleveland Browns leaning on defense and tempo. Expectations are for a low-scoring, physical game where field position and the trenches could decide the outcome.
Injuries have already thinned both rosters. The Browns will be without tight end David Njoku, who “has been ruled out for Sunday’s game,” per reporter Adam Schefter, and several others have been monitored. Starting DT Mason Graham is listed as questionable with a knee issue, second-year DT Mike Hall Jr. is day-to-day and questionable coming off knee surgery, right tackle Jack Conklin is questionable after missing practices with a concussion, and receiver Gage Larvadain continues through concussion protocol and is listed as questionable.
Miami’s offense is also operating without one of its top playmakers, since Tyreek Hill went down with a season-ending injury. Miami has leaned more on Jaylen Waddle and others to fill the void.
David Njoku and his probable replacement for Sunday’s game
David Njoku suffered his knee injury during Cleveland’s 23-9 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. He left the field for tests, attempted to return briefly, but had to exit again after a few plays. Early reports described the issue as a thigh problem, which was later clarified as a knee hyperextension. Njoku, has 23 catches for 223 yards and one touchdown this season. His next chance to play can be Oct. 26 against the Patriots.
Browns TE David Njoku is out for Sunday’s game vs. Miami due to his knee injury.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 17, 2025
In Njoku’s absence, rookie Harold Fannin, who stepped up with seven catches for 81 yards against the Steelers, figures to be the primary tight end. Limited shoulder concerns haven’t stopped Blake Whiteheart from being available and he is expected to mix in. The Browns could also consider elevating Sal Cannella from the practice squad.
Coach Kevin Stefanski and the medical staff are being cautious; as Stefanski noted about other injured players, "It would be nice to get Hall back if he’s ready." For now, Cleveland will adjust its personnel and game plan without Njoku on Sunday.
Quarterback matchups too, will draw attention. The Dolphins will turn to Tua Tagovailoa to carry Miami’s attack, while the Browns will start Dillon Gabriel under center. The Browns will try to grind out drives behind a defense-first game plan, while Miami will look to create big plays when opportunities arise.
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