The Baltimore Ravens extended one of their many contributors without a contract in 2026, signing tight end Mark Andrews to a three-year, $39.3 million deal.
The move comes from out of nowhere, but given that the Ravens had all three of their tight ends on expiring deals, they get ahead of the curve by extending Andrews. However, many Ravens fans are shocked by who General Manager Eric DeCosta chose to bring back.
At 30 years old, it was expected by some that Andrews was playing his last games in Charm City in 2025. The rising presence of backup tight ends Isaiah Likely and Charlie Kolar seemed to signal that they were the future at the position. However, Andrews is set to remain the Ravens’ starting tight end for the next three seasons.
While Kolar could still be brought back as he should receive a cheaper contract in the offseason, the Andrews contract does not bode well for Likely’s future with the team.
Isaiah Likely’s future with the Ravens in question
Following Andrews’ extension, Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team speculated that Likely will test the market once free agency opens up in 2026.
Isaiah Likely is set to become a free agent after this season, so this Mark Andrews’ extension indicates that Likely is probably going to be allowed to test the open market and find a new team in free agency.
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) December 3, 2025
Many had thought he’s the future at the TE position. https://t.co/2GIVLnTzQm pic.twitter.com/KRQgeuqE3F
According to Spotrac, Likely is expected to receive a contract of four years worth $40.4 million. That would put him in line to earn an average salary of $10.1 million, $3 million less than Andrews.
Entering the 2025 campaign, Likely was predicted to be a breakout star by many outlets. However, a foot injury ahead of the regular season kept him off the field until Week 4. Since returning, Likely has not been consistent at all. He has failed to record more than two receptions in six out of his eight games this season.
His performance in Baltimore’s Week 13 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals was by far his best showing to date. He posted five receptions for 95 yards, but a critical fumble on the goal line on what should have been a touchdown soured his night.
Throughout his four-year career, Likely has made countless highlight plays, but has yet to put up a true breakout campaign. He has failed to register over 500 yards in a single season, and 2025 appears to be another short of that mark.
Now, it looks like Likely will have to find a new home following the season. He has flashed in Baltimore, but has not cemented himself as a consistent, reliable option. That likely played a role in keeping Andrews around.