The Washington Commanders endured a disappointing 2025 campaign, hampered by coaching changes, roster instability, and multiple injuries. After a strong performance the previous year, the team’s setbacks contributed to an underwhelming record, leaving several positions in need of critical upgrades. Among these, the tight end spot has emerged as a key area requiring attention during the upcoming offseason.
Injury Woes Heighten the Need for a Reliable Tight End
Washington’s struggles were compounded early when starting quarterback Jayden Daniels sustained an elbow injury in Week 9 after limited play following a prior setback in Week 2. This injury occurred while the team was struggling with a 3-5 record, signaling a tough road ahead. The situation worsened in Week 14 when veteran tight end Zach Ertz tore his ACL against the Minnesota Vikings.
Though Ertz was not a leading offensive star, his role as a dependable option for Daniels was significant. Given his age of 35 and the lengthy rehabilitation timeline associated with an ACL tear, retirement is a real possibility. Whether or not Ertz returns, the Commanders must prepare to fill the void at tight end to support their offense moving forward.
Exploring Isaiah Likely as a Top Candidate for Washington
Washington has ample salary cap space and access to a competitive free-agent market for tight ends. NFL insider Ryan Wilson of CBS Sports identified former Baltimore Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely as a promising fit for the Commanders. A fourth-round draft pick in 2022, Likely spent his initial seasons playing behind star tight end Mark Andrews.
Despite limited starts, Likely demonstrated his impact with 15 touchdowns over four seasons, an impressive feat for a player sharing the field with a top-tier teammate like Andrews. In 2024, he ranked eighth among tight ends in PFSN’s TE Impact Metric, underscoring his blend of receiving skills and blocking ability. Although the Ravens’ offense regressed last season, Likely’s contributions remained notable.
Potential Impact of Adding Likely to the Commanders Roster
Bringing in Isaiah Likely could provide the Commanders with a dependable and dynamic weapon at the tight end position, complementing Jayden Daniels’ development as quarterback. While this signing alone will not resolve all of Washington’s offensive challenges, it represents a strategic move toward stabilizing a critical area of their lineup and bolstering offensive versatility.
