Harold Fannin Jr., the Cleveland Browns' rookie tight end, is quickly establishing himself as one of the most promising young talents at his position after a record-breaking college career at Bowling Green State University. The 22-year-old has seamlessly transitioned from collegiate stardom to NFL success, becoming a reliable target for rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel.
Record-Breaking College Legacy
Fannin's journey to the NFL began with a historic 2024 season at Bowling Green, where he shattered collegiate records for tight ends. In his junior year, he recorded an unprecedented
117 catches for 1,555 yards and 10 touchdowns across 13 games, earning All-American honors. His performance culminated in a spectacular bowl game against Arkansas State, where he hauled in
17 receptions for 213 yards and a touchdown in a 38-31 defeat.
The record-setting season positioned Fannin as one of the top tight end prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. On December 30, 2024, he officially declared for the draft, forgoing his final season of college eligibility.
NFL Draft Success and Browns Selection
The Cleveland Browns, who had been linked to Fannin throughout the pre-draft process, ultimately selected him in what appears to be the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft. His combination of route-running ability and blocking skills made him an attractive prospect for teams seeking a versatile tight end.
Early NFL Impact
Through five games of his rookie season, Fannin has already made his mark in Cleveland. He has caught
21 passes for 173 yards and one touchdown, establishing himself as a top target in the Browns' offensive scheme. His NFL debut touchdown came in spectacular fashion during a Week 5 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings in London, where he caught a one-yard scoring pass from fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel - marking Gabriel's first NFL passing touchdown.
Fantasy Football Relevance
Fantasy football analysts have taken notice of Fannin's early success. Despite some inconsistency in recent games, with receiving totals of 25, 24, and 13 yards in his last three outings, he remains a
developmental stash in dynasty formats. His upcoming schedule looks promising, with matchups against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Miami Dolphins, and New England Patriots - all teams that have been generous to tight ends this season.
The Steelers, in particular, have allowed the
fourth-most fantasy points per game to tight ends through their first four games, making Fannin an intriguing low-end TE1 option for Week 6.
Partnership with Dillon Gabriel
One of the most compelling storylines surrounding Fannin's rookie season is his developing chemistry with quarterback Dillon Gabriel. The two rookies have shown early signs of a productive partnership, with Fannin serving as a reliable safety valve in the Browns' passing attack.
Looking Ahead
As Fannin continues to develop in his rookie season, the Browns appear to have found a valuable weapon in their offensive arsenal. His combination of college production, early NFL success, and favorable upcoming matchups suggest that his best days may still be ahead of him.
The transition from Bowling Green to the NFL has been seamless for the young tight end, who has already proven he can compete at the highest level. With continued development alongside Gabriel and the Browns' offensive system, Fannin could emerge as one of the top rookie tight ends in the 2025 class.
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Sources
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4. Chargers nab pair of playmakers in new 2-round mock
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7. Notes: Harold Fannin Jr. says Browns going to ‘keep believing’ in Joe Flacco
8. Browns Home | Cleveland Browns - clevelandbrowns.com
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