Gregg Rosenthal Names Maryland's Chigoziem Okonkwo As The 36th Best NFL Free Agent

The 26-year-old tight end is set to hit free agency after a steady four-year career with the Tennessee Titans.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Chigoziem Okonkwo, a 26-year-old tight end who played at the University of Maryland, has been ranked as the 36th best NFL free agent by analyst Gregg Rosenthal. Okonkwo has spent the last four seasons with the Tennessee Titans, where he has established himself as a consistent and versatile offensive weapon. With free agency approaching, Okonkwo is poised to potentially sign a lucrative new contract with a team that could utilize his talents.

Why it matters

Okonkwo's impending free agency is significant because he has shown the ability to be a productive tight end in the NFL. As teams look to bolster their offensive firepower, Okonkwo's combination of size, speed, and pass-catching skills make him an attractive target. His potential signing could have a major impact on whichever team is able to land him.

The details

During his four seasons with the Titans, Okonkwo has played in all 68 games, starting 42 of them. He has amassed 194 receptions for 2,017 yards, 10.8 yards per catch, and 8 touchdowns. His best statistical season came in 2025, when he recorded career highs in catches (56) and receiving yards (560) with 2 touchdowns.

  • Okonkwo has been with the Tennessee Titans since 2022.
  • The 2026 NFL free agency period is set to begin on March 11th at 4 p.m. ET.

The players

Chigoziem Okonkwo

A 26-year-old tight end who has spent the last four seasons with the Tennessee Titans, establishing himself as a consistent and versatile offensive weapon.

Gregg Rosenthal

An NFL analyst and co-host of the "NFL Podcast" who has ranked Okonkwo as the 36th best free agent in the 2026 class.

Jayden Daniels

The franchise quarterback for the Washington Commanders, who could benefit from the addition of a talented tight end like Okonkwo.

David Blough

The newly promoted offensive coordinator for the Washington Commanders, who could look to utilize a versatile tight end like Okonkwo in his offense.

Zach Ertz

The aging tight end for the Washington Commanders who is entering free agency, creating a need at the position that Okonkwo could potentially fill.

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What they’re saying

“There are times Okonkwo looks like a potential All-Pro, running over fools and catching deep passes. At worst, he'll add versatility in two-tight end sets.”

— Gregg Rosenthal, NFL Analyst and Co-Host of the "NFL Podcast" (si.com)

What’s next

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The takeaway

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