Former Cleveland Browns tight end David Njoku parted ways with the Browns after nine years since he was drafted by them. While new head coach Todd Monken is left looking for his replacement, he has to fill in the gap quickly. 

Monken, who was formerly the offensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens, might rope in Isaiah LiKely from them. The 25-year-old has been linked in the search as the Browns are desperate to finally fix their offensive unit and need a reliable tight end. 

And who would be a better choice than a seasoned tight end who has already worked with Monken?

Set to enter free agency on March 9, he was a round 4 pick in 2022. In the 2025 season, he recorded seven starts, carried 27 receptions out of the 36 targets. He made 11 first-down catches and one touchdown for 307 yards. 

Under Monken in 2023 and 2024, the tight end made 72 receptions for 888 yards and scored 11 touchdowns.

The 2024 season was his most successful one yet. LiKely played over 600 snaps and was targeted 58 times and scored six touchdowns.

Likely failed to deliver in 2025, mainly due to an injured foot that needed surgery. Despite the setback, he remains a desirable choice thanks to his $3.4 million price tag.

If the Browns acquire him, Monken would have a formidable tight end. Monken is known use pre-snap motion and Air Raid standard structure in his game plans. 

Which Other Players Are Parting Ways With the Browns

At present, the Browns’ tight end roster is led by Harold Fannin Jr., who scored six touchdowns for 731 yards out of 72 receptions. In his last season, Njoku recorded four touchdowns for 293 yards.

Njoku is hitting free agency soon alongside Blake Whiteheart and Brenden Bates. 

Meanwhile, Sal Cannella and Caden Prieskorn, two practice squad members, were released after the season. 

Apart from filling out the tight end vacancy, the Browns also have to decide the starting quarterback position. As per his introductory press conference, Monken stated he is looking forward to getting started.

“I think, like any position on the team, that's still to be determined. Am I excited about all the quarterbacks in the room? Absolutely. I can't wait for them to get back and for us to get started,” he said. 

The offensive unit is set to undergo many changes, and whether Likely joins the team is yet to be determined. What are your thoughts?

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Written by

Akanksha Biradar

Edited by

Joyita Das