Full Breakdown
Ravens Revamp Tight End Corps Amid 2026 Offseason Overhaul
4/30/2026, 8:47:07 AM
Core Event: Tight End Room Redefined
The Baltimore Ravens entered the 2026 offseason with a tight end group. Isaiah Likely (Giants) and Charlie Kolar (Chargers) left, creating room for Durham Smythe and draft picks—Matt Hibner (4th round, 133rd overall) and Josh Cuevas (5th round, 173rd overall). Mark Andrews stays the starter.
Background & Context: Coaching Changes and Key Departures
The Ravens hired Jesse Minter as head coach and promoted Declan Doyle to offensive coordinator. They lost center Tyler Linderbaum, fullback Patrick Ricard and the tight ends, prompting front office to focus on “urgent needs” in draft, line and skill-position depth.
Tight End Group: New Draft Picks and Veteran Additions
Mark Andrews remains the starter and is expected to see a larger role. Durham Smythe, on a one-year deal, has 136 receptions for 1,253 yards and three touchdowns in 129 games. Matt Hibner, a 4-round SMU pick and 2023 Michigan champion, offers pass-catching ability. Josh Cuevas, a versatile 5-round Alabama selection after transferring from Washington, adds depth.
Data & Statistics
- Matt Hibner: 133rd overall (4th round), SMU; 2023 Michigan champion.
- Josh Cuevas: 173rd overall (5th round), Alabama; tight end.
- Durham Smythe: 1-year, $3 M; 136 receptions, 1,253 yards, 3 TDs.
- Isaiah Likely ($40 M, 3-yr), Charlie Kolar, Tyler Linderbaum, Patrick Ricard.
Official Statements & Responses
General Manager Eric DeCosta said Ravens targeted centers Logan Jones and Jake Slaughter, but both were taken before the third round. He noted the steep drop-off after those two prospects led team to shift resources to other needs, including tight end depth, rather than trade up at cost of later picks.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Mark Andrews texted me, and he's like, 'So happy for you, man. Enjoy the day, and let's get going, let's get to work,'” — Josh Cuevas, rookie tight end.
- “ Cuevas recalled getting the call from the Ravens and said he was "starstruck" when Executive Vice President Newsome, an all-time great tight end at Alabama, got on the phone.” — Josh Cuevas.
- “We thought both those guys were really, really outstanding players that could almost immediately help us,” — Eric DeCosta, General Manager.
- “I never really contemplated both guys getting picked after we picked Zion, before the start of the third round.” — Eric DeCosta.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Hibner was drafted a round earlier than Cuevas, suggesting he is TE3, but Ravens have not released a depth-chart, leaving ordering unclear.
What’s Next: Upcoming Roster Activities
Rookie minicamp starts May 2, followed by activities (May 18–June 4) and minicamp (June 9). Tight ends will integrate as team prepares for season that includes Brazil game.
