Charlie Kolar’s Rise Gives Ravens a Tight End Decision to Make in 2026
The Baltimore Ravens are at a crossroads. Sitting at 6-6 after a gut-punch loss to the Bengals on Thanksgiving night, this season hasn’t gone the way many in Baltimore hoped.
A playoff spot is still within reach, but the margin for error is razor-thin. And while the focus remains on salvaging 2025, there’s no ignoring the bigger picture: this roster is headed for some major changes in the offseason.
One of the more intriguing decisions looming for General Manager Eric DeCosta? The tight end room.
It’s a position that’s long been a cornerstone of the Ravens’ offense, but heading into 2026, it’s also one of the murkiest. Mark Andrews, Isaiah Likely, and Charlie Kolar are all set to hit free agency.
And while all three have flashed potential, none has fully seized the reins this season.
That could change - and the most surprising candidate to emerge might just be Charlie Kolar.
Kolar’s Quiet Impact Is Starting to Speak Louder
Let’s be clear: Kolar hasn’t been the go-to guy in this trio. Andrews leads the group in snaps (474), with Likely not far behind (318), and Kolar trailing at 285.
He’s been used sparingly in the passing game - just 86 reps in those situations - but he’s done something with those limited chances: eight catches, 105 yards, two touchdowns. Modest numbers, sure, but efficient ones.
Where Kolar is really starting to carve out a role is in the run game. And that matters - a lot - in a Ravens offense that still leans heavily on the ground attack.
His blocking has been quietly effective, earning him a 64.0 run blocking grade from Pro Football Focus, and a solid 69.8 overall. That includes a 73.1 grade on passing downs, showing he’s not a liability when asked to protect or contribute in the aerial game.
Those numbers don’t jump off the screen, but they tell a story: Kolar is doing the dirty work, and he’s doing it well.
A Future Role Taking Shape?
Now, it’s unlikely the Ravens bring back only one tight end. But with Andrews and Likely both potentially commanding higher-dollar deals, Kolar could be the cost-effective option who sticks around. That’s especially true if he continues to earn the trust of the coaching staff over the final stretch of the season.
There’s a real scenario where Kolar becomes a valuable depth piece - maybe even more. If he keeps trending upward, don’t be surprised if he plays himself into a larger role, possibly even starter reps down the line. He’s not the flashiest name in the room, but he might be the most intriguing long-term bet.
The Bottom Line
The Ravens have some tough calls ahead, especially at tight end. Andrews still has the résumé.
Likely brings upside. But Kolar?
He’s the one quietly stacking good tape, showing he belongs, and doing it without a big price tag attached.
In a year where the Ravens need answers, Charlie Kolar is starting to look like one.