🚨 BIG DECISION COMING UP: Could Isaiah Likely Be the New Starting Tight End for the Commanders, Eagles, or Chiefs in 2026? 👇

As the 2026 NFL offseason approaches, three teams—Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Commanders, and Kansas City Chiefs—are all facing tight end uncertainty, potentially making them suitors for Isaiah Likely, the talented tight end from the Baltimore Ravens. With notable players like Dallas Goedert and Zach Ertz becoming free agents, and the future of Travis Kelce in question, the tight end market could be a major point of focus for these teams in the upcoming season.

Tight End Decisions for the Eagles and Commanders

The Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Commanders are both looking at pivotal decisions at the tight end position. For the Eagles, Dallas Goedert has been a key contributor, but with his free agency looming, Philadelphia will need to make some tough calls on whether to keep their star or move on. Similarly, Zach Ertz has been a mainstay for the Commanders, but with him also set to hit free agency, and after suffering a torn ACL in 2025, his future remains uncertain. There’s even the possibility of Ertz retiring, leaving Washington with a significant hole at the tight end position.

Kansas City Chiefs Facing Uncertainty with Travis Kelce

Meanwhile, in Kansas City, the Chiefs are dealing with their own tight end dilemma. While Travis Kelce is a future Hall of Famer and one of the league’s top tight ends, his future remains up in the air. The 2026 season could very well be his last, leaving the Chiefs with just Noah Gray as their primary tight end. If Kelce retires, Kansas City would be in desperate need of a new starter. The question is whether they will be able to bring in someone like Isaiah Likely to fill the void.

Isaiah Likely’s Rise and Decline in Baltimore

Isaiah Likely initially appeared to be the future at tight end for the Baltimore Ravens after making a splash in the passing game. His athleticism and big-play ability made him a standout, leading to expectations that he would be a centerpiece of the Ravens’ offense for years to come. However, things took a turn when Mark Andrews—the Ravens’ top tight end—signed a massive contract extension late in the season. With Andrews locked in for the long-term, the Ravens are unlikely to allocate significant cap space to two top-tier tight ends. This could spell the end of Likely’s time in Baltimore, with other teams ready to make a move.

Likely’s Versatility and Appeal to Other Teams

One of the key reasons Likely is drawing interest is his versatility. Not only is he an explosive weapon in the passing game, but he’s also a capable blocker, making him an every-down asset for any offense. His big-play ability could be exactly what the Commanders, Eagles, or Chiefs need to strengthen their offense. He has the potential to be a game-changer for whichever team signs him, providing a dynamic threat both in the air and on the ground.

Where Will Isaiah Likely Land? Commanders, Eagles, or Chiefs?

According to CBS Sports’ Zachary Pereles, the Washington Commanders are the best landing spot for Likely. Pereles notes that Washington needs to replace Zach Ertz, and Isaiah Likely would provide the speed and athleticism that Jayden Daniels has not had at the tight end position before. He sees Washington as having a significant advantage over the Eagles and Chiefs, especially in terms of financial flexibility. The Commanders have over $40 million more in cap space than the Eagles, giving them a much greater ability to sign Likely.

Pereles also mentions the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles as potential suitors. However, he believes Kansas City will likely be out of the running if Travis Kelce decides to return for another season, which is what many analysts expect. This would leave the Chiefs with their hands tied in terms of adding another top-tier tight end, including Likely.

The Commanders’ Advantage: Cap Space and Need

With over $40 million more in cap space than the Philadelphia Eagles, the Washington Commanders have a clear advantage in the race to land Isaiah Likely. Their financial flexibility allows them to make a more compelling offer, while the Eagles may struggle to find enough room to make such a move. If the Commanders are serious about upgrading their offense, adding a dynamic playmaker like Likely could be exactly what they need to take their passing game to the next level.

The Eagles’ Potential Pursuit of Likely

While the Commanders appear to be in the driver’s seat, the Philadelphia Eagles are still a possibility for Isaiah Likely. If the Eagles are unable to re-sign Dallas Goedert, Likely would be a natural fit in their offense. His ability to stretch the field and make plays in the passing game could complement their existing weapons and provide Jalen Hurts with another reliable target. However, the Eagles’ cap situation may complicate matters, and they could be forced to prioritize other roster needs.

The Chiefs’ Tight End Room: Could Likely Be the Future?

Although Kansas City is unlikely to prioritize Isaiah Likely if Travis Kelce returns for another season, the Chiefs’ tight end situation remains worth monitoring. If Kelce decides to retire or take a step back, Likely could be a logical fit as the new starting tight end in Kansas City. His versatility would allow him to step into a starting role immediately, and his athleticism would add another dimension to the Chiefs’ already high-powered offense. However, as it stands, Washington and Philadelphia are more likely to be the top contenders for his services.

Final Thoughts: Commanders Leading the Race for Likely

As of now, Washington appears to be the most likely destination for Isaiah Likely in 2026. With their cap space, need for a starting tight end, and the ability to offer a significant role in their offense, the Commanders seem poised to make a move for the talented young tight end. However, the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs should not be counted out entirely, especially if circumstances change. The offseason will likely be full of twists and turns, but Isaiah Likely is certainly a name to watch as one of the most sought-after tight ends on the market.

If Likely heads to Washington, Philadelphia, or Kansas City, one thing is certain: the tight end position in 2026 will be as competitive and dynamic as ever.

Will the Commanders make the most of their cap space to land Isaiah Likely, or will the Eagles and Chiefs make a late push? Only time will tell, but this offseason is shaping up to be an exciting one for tight end free agency.