Fans don't have to look hard in the media to see speculation about the Washington Commanders making a move for Baltimore Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely in free agency. And if general manager Adam Peters comes forward with an official approach, it seems the player would seriously consider the possibility.
The Commanders could be looking for more at the tight-end spot. A return for veteran Zach Ertz hasn't been ruled out, especially with the Pro Bowler aiming to get back for Week 1. Ben Sinnott remains an unknown quantity with a pivotal offseason ahead, and John Bates' role as a blocking specialist is firmly cemented.
There are too many unknowns attached to stand pat. The Commanders have money to spend in free agency, and Likely is going to hit the market in search of a prominent TE1 role after sitting behind Mark Andrews for the majority of his career in Baltimore.
Isaiah Likely said a lot by saying almost nothing about Commanders' free agency speculation
During an appearance with Kay Adams on the Up and Adams Show, the Commanders came up in a conversation with Likely. He didn't say much, but it's clear that linking up with star quarterback Jayden Daniels would be a difficult proposition to turn down.
Whether the Commanders make their move for Likely remains to be seen. However, his flashes and upward trajectory with the promise of more to come in an expanded role make this an intriguing option from Washington's perspective.
Likely is an athletic route-runner with assured hands. His athleticism makes him a supreme threat after the catch. At 25, the Coastal Carolina product has barely scratched the surface of what he might be capable of with his prime years ahead.
His market projection of $8.81 million per season on a two-year, $17.63 million deal is also affordable. Likely could vastly outplay this contract as a legitimate No. 1 option within friendly concepts being installed by new offensive coordinator David Blough. And even though things spiraled last season, Daniels under center makes Washington an attractive destination for almost anybody.
Whether it's Likely or someone else, the Commanders need another dependable option in the passing game at tight end. Sinnott hasn't developed encouragingly enough to be trusted. There is just no telling how effective Ertz will be at 36 in November and coming off a torn ACL. Bates is a specialist, and a good one.
Dynamism is sorely lacking. If the price is right, Likely would tick that box for the Commanders as they look to maximize Daniels' rookie contract entering Year 3.
Let's see what Peters has in store. But Likely would probably be receptive to any offer from Washington that came his way.