The New Orleans Saints are entering the 2026 offseason in unfamiliar territory - with cap space to work with. And with that financial flexibility comes opportunity, especially at a position that could quietly reshape their offense: tight end.
One name to watch? Isaiah Likely.
Just a few seasons ago, it looked like Likely was poised to take over the reins in Baltimore from Mark Andrews. But now, for the first time in his career, Likely is set to hit the open market. Whether or not he returns to the Ravens, the 24-year-old tight end believes he’s ready to make an impact wherever he lands.
"I say just because of all the adversity I went through, whether it be negative plays, injury-wise, or walking with God, I understand that everything happens for a reason," Likely told reporters. "That helps me to not dwell on the kind of player I am. At the end of the day, I know what kind of player I am."
And that player has put together a solid resume: 135 catches, 1,568 yards, and 15 touchdowns over 63 games. Those aren’t eye-popping numbers, but they’re the kind of consistent production that makes coaches take notice - especially when paired with Likely’s versatility and athleticism.
If the Saints make a move for Likely, it wouldn’t just be about adding another pass-catcher. It could signal a shift in how new offensive coordinator Kellen Moore wants to attack defenses.
Right now, the Saints already have a tight end on the rise in Juwan Johnson. He’s coming off a career year and looks every bit the part of a top-tier TE1. But imagine what Moore could do with both Johnson and Likely on the field at the same time.
Of course, that would require a philosophical change. Last season, New Orleans leaned heavily on 11 personnel - that’s one running back, one tight end, and three wide receivers - using it on 66.7% of their snaps, the fourth-highest rate in the NFL. By contrast, they only lined up in 12 personnel (two tight ends) 16.84% of the time, which ranked 24th in the league.
But with the right personnel, that could change - and Likely might be the key.
Running more two-tight end sets would force defenses to adjust. It’s not just about having another big body on the field; it’s about creating mismatches.
Linebackers might struggle to cover both Johnson and Likely in space. Safeties could be pulled out of position.
And when the defense starts to key in on the tight ends? That’s when the receivers and backs start finding daylight.
It’s a strategy that’s worked for other teams. The Rams and Bears have shown in recent years how effective a dynamic tight end duo can be - not just as blockers or red zone targets, but as focal points in the passing game. It’s a wrinkle that can elevate an offense from good to playoff-caliber.
So if the Saints do decide to pursue Isaiah Likely, it won’t just be about depth. It’ll be about evolution. And with Kellen Moore calling the shots, that evolution could come fast.