The Denver Broncos had the best record in the AFC, but even the best teams still need to fill holes on their rosters. The tight end position is a concern due to Evan Engram’s limited production, and they could look for upgrades to make life easier for Bo Nix in his third season.
Broncos Predicted As Landing Spot for Isaiah Likely in Free Agency
Engram is still expected to be on the roster for 2026, but Adam Trautman is a free agent, and he’s not expected to return. Adding another option who can contribute in the passing game would be excellent for the Broncos, and Isaiah Likely, ranked as No. 67 in PFSN’s Top 100 free agents, is a good option.
“I’d argue Isaiah Likely is better than his numbers indicate. He’s had to battle with the likes of Mark Andrews and Charlie Kolar for snaps in the Ravens’ tight end room, yet he’s still managed to average over 400 receiving yards each of the last two seasons.”
“His quarterbacks have averaged a passer rating of 124.3 in his four seasons with Baltimore. He’s dropped just 2 of his 80 targets over the last two years, as well.”
Likely, who has 15 career touchdowns, started gaining attention in 2024, when Mark Andrews’ struggles led him to take on a bigger role on offense. In 2025, however, he didn’t break out as expected, and the Ravens’ salary cap situation is expected to result in Likely finding a new team.
His fate was sealed when, in December, Andrews signed an unexpected three-year, $39 million extension with Baltimore. The veteran had the worst season of his career with just 422 yards and 5 touchdowns, but still signed a lucrative deal. The Ravens won’t give a big deal to their backup tight end.
Likely’s numbers also did not impress. He had just 307 yards and a touchdown in 14 games, the lowest marks of his career so far. Our PFSN TE Impact Metric also wasn’t impressed, with a 74.4 grade putting him at No. 29; in the previous two years, he was ranked inside the top 15.
His poor 2025 season will lower his price, making it easier for the Broncos to consider his signing. Although they have around $20 million in cap space available, Denver needs to save money for the upcoming contract extension for Bo Nix.
Picking smart deals is the way to go in 2025.
Likely would represent an improvement over Trautman and allow the team to play more snaps in 12 personnel. Our top 100 currently projects an average of $10.9 million per year in his contract.
We’ll see if the Broncos commit the necessary money to sign him.
