Ravens Face Tight End Dilemma: Double Dip or Find New Star?

As the Ravens' tight end situation remains uncertain, the team must decide whether to re-sign their own players or target new talent in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 12:00pm

A cubist-style painting depicting a Ravens tight end catching a pass, with the player's body and the football broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes.The Ravens' tight end situation remains a complex puzzle, with the team facing tough decisions on their future at the position.Baltimore Today

The Baltimore Ravens are facing a tight end dilemma as they approach the 2026 NFL Draft. With potential free agent departures of Isaiah Likely and Charlie Kolar, the team must determine whether to double dip at the position again or find a new star to complement franchise leader Mark Andrews.

Why it matters

The Ravens have a history of drafting tight ends in pairs, having done so four times in franchise history. This approach has paid dividends, with the team finding success with duos like Hayden Hurst/Mark Andrews and Dennis Pitta/Ed Dickson. As they navigate this offseason, their decision will shape the future of their passing attack.

The details

General Manager Eric DeCosta has hinted at the possibility of re-signing Likely, while Kolar's future also remains uncertain. The Ravens could look to the 2026 draft to find their next tight end duo, with prospects like Kenyon Sadiq, Max Klare, Eli Stowers, Jack Endries, and Michael Trigg potentially on their radar.

  • The Ravens will have to make decisions on Likely and Kolar's futures before the start of free agency.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place in late April, where the Ravens could target tight end prospects.

The players

Mark Andrews

The Ravens' franchise leader in receptions and receiving touchdowns over his impressive eight-season career.

Isaiah Likely

A versatile weapon for the Ravens, making acrobatic catches and consistently gaining yards after the catch.

Charlie Kolar

Has evolved into a primary in-line blocking tight end, surprising teams with his reliable receiving skills.

Eric DeCosta

The Ravens' General Manager, who will have to make key decisions regarding the team's tight end situation.

Kenyon Sadiq

The top tight end prospect, a hybrid wide receiver/tight end with exceptional athleticism who is a potential first-round pick.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The Ravens will need to make decisions on Likely and Kolar's futures in the coming weeks, as they prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft where they could target new tight end talent.

The takeaway

The Ravens' tight end dilemma highlights the team's successful history of drafting the position in pairs, a strategy that has paid dividends. As they navigate this offseason, their decision will shape the future of their passing attack and could determine whether they double dip again or find a new star to complement Mark Andrews.