One of the most notable tight end rooms in the NFL is no more, as free agency has seen former Baltimore Ravens tight ends Isaiah Likely and Charlie Kolar sign with new teams.
Once built up with that duo and veteran Mark Andrews, Baltimore often put on a clinic with multiple tight end sets that saw advanced blocking and run-game play.
After Andrews signed a three-year extension in December, Likely (25) and Kolar (27) opted to more heavily compete for playing time at the top of a depth chart than return to familiar territory with a new head coach.
New Giants Head Coach John Harbaugh likely had some influence to bring Likely up to New York, and it’s no coincidence his brother, Jim, is the head coach in Los Angeles. Likely inked a 3-year deal worth up to $47.5 million with the New York Giants, while Kolar also signed a 3-year deal, for a little more than $24 million.
With two-thirds of its tight end room gone, how will it impact Baltimore’s offense? And what outlook do Likely and Kolar have for fantasy?
Likely Reunites with Harbaugh in New York
Not only are Harbaugh and Likely reuniting, but they will again be working with offensive assistant Greg Roman.
Roman has instilled a more run-heavy offense for the teams he has been with. The size and blocking abilities of Likely – while also being a force with contested catches and red zone presence – will aid to that game plan.
It’s more than likely that the Giants decided to pay Likely instead of former wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson due to the cheaper option and familiarity.
And when the Giants do turn to the passing attack, now run by pass-happy offensive coordinator Matt Nagy, neither Malik Nabers, Theo Johnson or Likely will be overly relied on.
But, if the roster remains as it is and New York does not add a receiver in the draft, both Likely and Johnson would be expected to pick up more targets as co-No. 2 wide receiver options.
In four years with Baltimore, Likely averaged 11.6 yards per catch, 52 targets per season and a 70% catch rate. Likely should be considered the front-runner for the starting tight end job, to which he would see an uptick in targets per game.
Kolar Signs Surprising Deal with Chargers
You have to admit that a third-string tight end signing a three-year deal was one of the more surprising moves so far in free agency.
The good news? Kolar is coming off the most targets, catches, yards and touchdowns in a season during his four-year career.
The bad news? Those numbers amounted to 15 targets, 10 catches, 142 yards and two scores.
That means Kolar’s deal is based moreso on his run-blocking ability. Kolar ranked eighth among tight ends in overall run-blocking grade (71.5) and had a run-block win rate of 75.5% last season.
Los Angeles now has former head coach Mike McDaniel running its offense. McDaniel burst running back De’Von Achane onto the scene in Miami and should be able to develop the Chargers’ backfield, specifically second-year back Omarion Hampton.
The addition of Kolar, as well as fullback Alec Ingold, can only elevate the Chargers’ rushing offense.
Summary
Likely is an intriguing option for fantasy managers.
He’s likely available in most league formats, outside of dynasty, and can be added to a roster whether in a redraft or keeper league later in drafts. His new placement, but experienced coaching class, can allow managers to wait to take a tight end and add depth at other key positions.
It’ll be important to monitor the number of passing attempts that come from Jaxson Dart in the first few weeks of the season, but that should give an idea of what to realistically expect from Likely. Remembering Nabers and running back Cam Skattebo may not be ready for the regular season is a reason to invest early and possibly trade high a few weeks into the season.
Additionally, you’re still not drafting Kolar. No matter how much this author pushes him as a sleeper, he is not rosterable.
Finally, on paper, Andrews’ role has increased. However, his middle-of-round-six average draft position at this time is way too high. This could be another wait-and-see approach to see just how much Baltimore’s team production has changed before making sure he holds one of your roster spots.
Andrews tallied a career-low 8.8 yards per reception, 422 receiving yards, and just under 25 yards per game with Likely and Kolar in 2025. Nothing suggests the offense will be switching gears to pass more – unless the team is always playing from behind.
Players such as the Bears’ Colston Loveland, who scored more than 50 points more than Andrews last season, is being drafted in round 13. Kyle Pitts and Jake Ferguson? Even later.
*Editor’s Note: Baltimore signed Miami Dolphins free agent tight end Durham Smythe as the league year officially began. That signing does not impact Mark Andrews’ fantasy relevance.
