Why Isaiah Likely Should Be on the Commanders’ Radar This Offseason
The Washington Commanders are heading into a pivotal offseason, and new GM Adam Peters has no shortage of problems to address. Injuries may have played their part in derailing the 2025 campaign, but the bigger issue is clear: this roster isn’t built to last. If Washington wants to move from rebuilding to contending, Peters needs to start laying the foundation for long-term success now-not later.
And while quarterback development and offensive line upgrades will dominate headlines, there’s another area that deserves serious attention: tight end. The Commanders need more than just a stopgap-they need a reliable, dynamic playmaker who can grow with their young core. That’s why Isaiah Likely should be on their radar.
A Surprising Move in Baltimore Could Open the Door
The Ravens made waves across the league by extending veteran tight end Mark Andrews to a three-year, $39.5 million deal with $26.5 million guaranteed. That move caught many off guard.
Andrews has battled injuries and hasn’t quite been the same force he was at his peak, leading to speculation that Baltimore might move on. Instead, they doubled down.
That decision could have ripple effects-most notably for Isaiah Likely. With Andrews locked in as the TE1, it’s hard to see the Ravens investing heavily in Likely, who’s set to hit free agency. And if he does, Washington should be first in line.
Why Likely Makes Sense for Washington
Let’s be real: the Commanders’ tight end room is thin. Zach Ertz, while a respected veteran presence, is nearing the end of the line and could retire.
Ben Sinnott remains a question mark in his second season. John Bates is more of a blocking specialist, and Colson Yankoff looks like a depth piece at best.
That leaves a major hole in the passing game-especially for a young quarterback like Jayden Daniels, who would benefit from a reliable safety valve over the middle. Likely checks that box and then some.
At 25, Likely is entering his prime and has shown flashes of high-level production when given the chance. He’s been buried behind Andrews in Baltimore, but when he’s on the field, he makes plays.
He’s got soft hands, good separation ability, and a knack for finding the end zone. This isn’t just a plug-and-play option-this is a potential long-term solution.
Fit, Timing, and the Bigger Picture
Peters has made it clear that he’s looking to build a sustainable winner, not just patch holes. That means targeting ascending players who can grow with the team.
Likely fits that mold perfectly. He’s young, talented, and hungry for a bigger role.
And with Washington’s offensive core still developing, he could become a key piece of the puzzle.
Of course, money will matter. Likely’s camp will be looking for a deal that reflects his potential, and Washington will need to weigh that against other priorities. But if the price is right, this is the kind of move that could pay off in a big way.
The Ravens’ commitment to Andrews may have just opened the door for a rival to swoop in and grab a rising talent. For the Commanders, that’s an opportunity they can’t afford to overlook.
Isaiah Likely isn’t just a luxury target-he could be a foundational piece for the next era of Washington football.