In an Instagram announcement David Njoku released with the Cleveland Browns, he detailed the painful September night that left him with severe burns on over 17 percent of his body. The tight end stated he was hosting a bonfire and used a spray to soak the logs. Particles from the spray remained in the air around the bonfire when Njoku tried to start the fire, setting the tight end ablaze.
“I saw the fire come up from my wrist and blow up in my face,” Njoku revealed. Dr. Joseph Khouri of University Hospitals treated Njoku the following morning when Njoku informed the team of his burns. Khouri stated, “I diagnosed it as about a 17-18 percent total body surface area burn of second-degree partial thickness.”
Khouri recommended Njoku sit out against the Ravens, but Njoku declined the medical advice describing games against the Ravens as “personal.” Njoku had six receptions for 48 yards against the rivals. He proved to be a reliable safety blanket for rookie Dorian Thompson-Robinson who made his NFL debut.
David Njoku is partnering with the American Burn Association for the NFL’s My Cause My Cleats program. On Sunday, Njoku will wear a pair of purple and green cleats adorned with the Association’s name and a picture of Njoku wearing his mask during player walk-ins.
