Ravens Sign Veteran Tight End Durham Smythe

Smythe to provide blocking depth after Ravens lose Likely and Kolar in free agency

Mar. 12, 2026 at 2:24am

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The Baltimore Ravens have signed veteran tight end Durham Smythe to a contract, adding depth to their tight end group after losing Isaiah Likely and Charlie Kolar in free agency. Smythe, a former fourth-round pick out of Notre Dame, spent the past seven seasons with the Miami Dolphins before joining the Chicago Bears in 2025. He is known as a strong blocking tight end and will likely fill a similar role with the Ravens.

Why it matters

The Ravens' tight end depth took a hit with the departures of Likely and Kolar, so signing Smythe helps shore up that position group. As a blocking specialist, Smythe can help in the running game and provide support for star tight end Mark Andrews, the team's leading receiver.

The details

Smythe, 30, is a prototypical blocking tight end with eight years of NFL experience. He started 74 games for the Dolphins from 2018-2024, though he never saw more than 43 targets in a season. Last year with the Bears, he was targeted just six times and caught four passes, serving primarily as a blocker. The Ravens are likely to use Smythe in a similar role, slotting him in as an in-line blocker and backfield blocker with the departure of fullback Pat Ricard.

  • Smythe agreed to terms with the Ravens on Wednesday, March 12, 2026.

The players

Durham Smythe

A 30-year-old tight end who spent the first seven seasons of his career with the Miami Dolphins before joining the Chicago Bears in 2025.

Mark Andrews

The Ravens' star tight end and leading receiver, who is currently the only other tight end on the depth chart.

Eric DeCosta

The Ravens' general manager, who moved quickly to sign Smythe after losing Likely and Kolar in free agency.

Declan Doyle

The Ravens' new offensive coordinator, who likely advocated for signing the veteran Smythe.

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What’s next

The Ravens are expected to continue adding to their tight end depth, likely through the upcoming NFL Draft, to find a pass-catching complement to Smythe and Andrews.

The takeaway

With the departures of Likely and Kolar, the Ravens moved quickly to add veteran blocking tight end Durham Smythe to their roster. While not a prolific pass-catcher, Smythe's experience and skill as an in-line blocker will be valuable assets as the Ravens look to shore up their tight end group.