The Cleveland Browns are gearing up for a crucial free agency period, and the spotlight is on their offensive strategy. With a new offensive coordinator, Todd Monken, known for his transformative impact on college football teams, the Browns aim to revitalize their struggling offense. But here's where it gets interesting: the key to Monken's success might lie in the tight end position.
Monken's offensive prowess is undeniable. He elevated Oklahoma State's offense from #88 to #11, and LSU's from #42 to #9. Even as a head coach at Southern Miss, he improved their ranking from #112 to #13 in his final season. Most impressively, Georgia's offense soared from #49 to #5 nationally under his guidance as OC.
Now, the Browns, who have languished in the bottom third of rushing and passing categories for two years, need a similar turnaround. Monken's offensive scheme heavily relies on multiple tight ends, employing pre-snap motion with a physical run game and an Air Raid structure. While he uses various personnel groups, the tight end's role is pivotal for both blocking and receiving.
Cleveland already has a promising young tight end, Harold Fannin, who led the team in receiving last year. However, with David Njoku, Blake Whiteheart, and Brenden Bates all entering free agency, the Browns need more depth at this position. And this is where Isaiah Likely comes into play.
Likely, a 6'4", 245-pound tight end from the Baltimore Ravens, is an intriguing prospect. At 26, he has the potential to grow within Monken's system. Despite a disappointing 2025 season due to a foot injury, Likely's athleticism and upside are evident. He boasts a PFF ranking of 69.1 and has shown flashes of brilliance, including a 2024 season with 58 targets and six touchdowns.
The Browns could sign Likely for a reasonable price, especially considering his reduced production in 2025. His familiarity with Monken's system from their time together in Baltimore is a significant advantage. And with Likely's ability to track the ball and his leaping skills, he could be the missing piece in the Browns' offensive puzzle.
But here's where it gets controversial: should the Browns prioritize a tight end in free agency? Some fans might argue that other positions need more urgent attention. And with top-tier tight ends like Dallas Goedert and Kyle Pitts available, but likely commanding high salaries, is Likely the best option? The Browns' strategy will undoubtedly spark debates among fans and analysts alike.
What do you think? Is Isaiah Likely the right choice for the Browns' offensive revamp, or should they focus on other positions first? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
