Ravens make big move that could impact Commanders this offseason

The Baltimore Ravens made a move on Wednesday that could impact the 2026 offseason for the Washington Commanders. The Ravens signed longtime tight end Mark Andrews to a three-year extension, keeping him in Charm City for years to come.

This offseason, 25-year-old tight end Isaiah Likely will be a free agent. With the Ravens extending Andrews, it's doubtful they'll work to keep Likely in the fold.

This aligns perfectly with what the Commanders could be looking for in the offseason. Veteran tight end Zach Ertz is a free agent at the end of the season. While Ertz proved in Sunday's loss to the Broncos that he has plenty left in the tank, Washington needs to get younger. Likely is a decade younger, a terrific athlete, and has been productive when give the opportunity.

Baltimore fans have long wanted to see Likely more involved in the offense. In his first three seasons, Likely missed only one game and made 19 starts. This season, he has appeared in nine games with five starts. After catching 42 passes and six touchdowns as the No. 2 tight end in 2024, Likely has just 18 receptions for 223 yards and no touchdowns this season. He does not have a touchdown. Part of his issue in 2025 is Baltimore's quarterback issues. Lamar Jackson missed several games with an injury.

The Commanders have John Bates, Ben Sinnott and Colson Yankoff under contract for next season. Bates is one of the NFL's top blocking tight ends and has a significant role. Sinnott, a 2024 second-round pick, has yet to prove he can make an impact on offense. But he's been stuck behind Ertz. Washington must determine whether Sinnott can be an impactful receiver. Otherwise, pursuing Likely makes a ton of sense.

Last offseason, GM Adam Peters solidified the offensive line. The moves Peters made have finally started to pay off, as Washington's offensive line is quickly becoming a top unit. Now, he must land more weapons for quarterback Jayden Daniels. Daniels loves Ertz. But he can't play forever. If you have a chance to add a dynamic young pass-catcher who can create mismatches, particularly in the red zone, you should try to sign him.

Likely could also add another downfield weapon to Washington's offense. Regardless of what the Commanders do at receiver — and yes, they need to add another starting wideout — they need more speed on offense. Likely brings that.

The question is, why didn't the Ravens pick Likely over Andrews? Andrews is five years older. That's a question only Baltimore GM Eric DeCosta can answer. The good news for the Commanders is that David Blackburn is Washington's director of player personnel. Blackburn was in Baltimore for several years, including the first two of Likely's career. If Peters has any questions or concerns, Blackburn can address them.

With all of Washington's needs this offseason, some must be addressed through free agency. Likely could be a natural replacement for Ertz and not impact the other tight ends on the roster. However, the Commanders still need to learn more about Sinnott over the final five games.

This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders: Ravens big move could impact 2026 offseason