The NFL Draft is notoriously unpredictable, and it’s not just the mystery of who will be selected—it can also reshape the futures of players already in the league. As we look ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft, there’s chatter surrounding the potential fate of one of Lamar Jackson’s primary targets: tight end Mark Andrews.
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh recently expressed his faith that Andrews will remain with the team in 2025, calling out the tight end’s immense talent and impact on the game. “He’s just too good a player,” Harbaugh stated confidently. However, general manager Eric DeCosta took a more cautious approach during discussions. When quizzed about the possibility of trading Andrews in the draft, he remained non-committal, hinting at the uncertainty that often comes with draft day.
“Oh man. I never know what’s gonna happen… I wouldn’t want to say this or that,” DeCosta said. “But I can tell you this: Mark Andrews is a warrior. He’s played his butt off for us, and his competitiveness, his talent, his attitude, his leadership is so valued here. We’re in the business of keeping as many great players as we can.” It’s clear he appreciates the impact Andrews has on the team.
Entering the final year of his contract, Andrews’ situation is particularly noteworthy. He’ll be drawing a $7 million base salary but carries a hefty $16.9 million cap hit. Should the Ravens choose to part ways with him, they could clear $11 million against the cap. Andrew’s future remains murky as DeCosta hinted at several negotiations taking place behind the scenes, including discussions on running back Derrick Henry’s contract. “So we have a lot of different balls in the air right now,” he said, emphasizing the complexity of the roster management heading into the draft.
If Andrews does move on, the Ravens still have promising options at tight end, particularly Isaiah Likely. He stepped up last year, boasting career highs with 42 catches, 477 receiving yards, and six touchdowns. As a fourth-round pick in 2022, Likely is entering the final year of his rookie deal and could help fill the gap if Andrews departs.
Andrews himself has had an impressive career since being drafted by the Ravens in 2018. Last year, he recorded 55 receptions, 673 yards, and an impressive 11 touchdowns. Unfortunately, his season is somewhat overshadowed by a pivotal dropped two-point conversion in the Ravens’ heartbreaking AFC divisional round loss to the Buffalo Bills, where a catch could’ve tied the game late in the fourth quarter.
Mark Andrews has solidified his legacy in Baltimore, ranking third in franchise history with 436 receptions, second in receiving yards with 5,530, and first in touchdown receptions with 51. Should the Ravens decide to explore trade options, here are three teams that might find Andrews to be a perfect addition:
Colts
The Colts faced significant challenges at tight end last season, finishing near the bottom of the league with just 467 yards from the position. With uncertainty surrounding their quarterback situation in 2025, whether that’s Daniel Jones or Anthony Richardson, the offense could greatly benefit from a seasoned pass catcher like Andrews to boost their productivity. Last season, Kylen Granson led Indianapolis tight ends but only managed a paltry 14 receptions for 182 yards.
Bears
Similarly, the Bears had high hopes for their offense behind rookie quarterback Caleb Williams but endured a disappointing season capped by the firing of head coach Matt Eberflus. With the arrival of offensive-minded Ben Johnson, who previously thrived with tight end Sam LaPorta in Detroit, Chicago could look to integrate a game-changing talent like Andrews into their schemes. Currently, Cole Kmet stands as the Bears’ leading tight end, amassing 474 yards on 47 receptions last season.
Jets
The Jets also struggled in the tight end department during the 2024 season, ranking 26th in the league with just 601 yards from the position. With a new coaching staff under Aaron Glenn and quarterback Justin Fields taking over, revitalizing the offense will require solid targets. Tyler Conklin was the top tight end for New York last year, recording 449 yards and 51 receptions, but bringing in a player of Andrews’ caliber could dramatically improve their performance.
As the draft approaches, the uncertainty surrounding Mark Andrews’ future adds an exciting layer to the proceedings. Ravens fans and analysts alike will be keeping a close watch on how this situation unfolds, as it could have significant implications for both Baltimore and potential suitors.
