Here’s a bold statement: The Cleveland Browns’ offensive struggles over the past two years have been nothing short of embarrassing. Ranking in the bottom third across nearly every rushing and passing category, it’s clear that drastic changes are needed. But here’s where it gets controversial: Could the addition of a familiar face at tight end be the missing piece to Todd Monken’s offensive puzzle? Let’s dive in.
Todd Monken’s track record speaks for itself. At Oklahoma State, he transformed the offense from a dismal #88 ranking to a respectable #11. His stint at LSU saw a similar leap, from #42 to #9. Even at Southern Miss, where the team initially ranked #112, Monken engineered a remarkable turnaround, finishing his tenure with the #13 offense in the nation. When he took over as Georgia’s offensive coordinator, the Bulldogs jumped from #49 to #5. The man knows how to build winning offenses.
And this is the part most people miss: A cornerstone of Monken’s scheme is the versatile use of tight ends—often multiple at a time. His system thrives on pre-snap motion, a physical run game, and the explosive passing plays of the Air Raid. Think 21 personnel packages, with tight ends blocking and creating mismatches in the passing game. It’s a system that demands athleticism, versatility, and familiarity.
Enter Isaiah Likely, a 26-year-old tight end from the Baltimore Ravens. Standing at 6’4” and 245 pounds, Likely fits Monken’s mold perfectly. Here’s the kicker: Likely already has experience playing under Monken in Baltimore, giving him a leg up in understanding the system. While his 2025 season was underwhelming due to a lingering foot injury, his 2024 campaign showcased his potential—600+ snaps, 58 targets, and six touchdowns.
Likely’s skill set is impressive: solid route-running, soft hands, and the agility to line up as a tight end, H-back, or even in the backfield. His yards after catch (YAC) average of 6.1 yards since entering the league highlights his playmaking ability. Plus, his drop rate has significantly improved, with just one drop last season.
Compared to pricier options like Dallas Goedert or Kyle Pitts, Likely offers a more budget-friendly solution without sacrificing talent. His projected four-year, $36 million contract is a steal for a player with his upside and familiarity with Monken’s system.
But here’s the question that’ll spark debate: Is Isaiah Likely the long-term answer at tight end for the Browns, or is he just a stopgap solution? While his potential is undeniable, his injury history and inconsistent production might raise eyebrows. What do you think? Is Likely the missing piece, or should the Browns aim higher? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
