OWINGS MILLS — The Ravens’ offense should have versatility with three tight ends capable of making plays down field and creating matchup problems because of their size.
Mark Andrews has established himself as one of the top playmakers in the NFL. The Ravens also have two younger tight ends, Isaiah Likely and Charlie Kolar, who have improved.
Harbaugh expects all three tight ends to play key roles in the offense next season. In addition, the Ravens have the versatile Pat Ricard, who can play fullback and tight end.
“The young tight ends evolving and growing is going to be a big part of what we’re doing,” Harbaugh said at this week’s owners’ meetings. “There’s no doubt. I think Charlie is going to take a big step. Isaiah is going to take even another big step. He took a big step last year. He’s a talented guy. So, [we have] those two guys.”
“Mark is a star. He’s one of the superstars in the National Football League. They’re all receiving tight ends. They’re all willing blockers. I think we’re in a really good place at tight end.”
Despite missing six games with fractured fibula and ligament damage in his left ankle, Andrews still ranked second on the team with 45 receptions for 544 yards and six touchdowns, the best among the receivers.
Likely scored six touchdowns in seven games while Andrews was sidelined.
The wild card is Kolar, who played well in limited action. Kolar was targeted nine times and caught seven passes for 87 yards with a touchdown. His size — 6 feet 6, 270 pounds — also gives him the potential to become an exceptional blocker.
“I think being an in-line guy would be great for us, because we kind of need that,” Harbaugh said. [Kolar] is 6-6, 270-275 pounds. That’s a big body. Charlie’s a tough guy, and he’s really determined to be a good blocker. That would be the step that you’d like to see him take. I trust him as a receiver.
“He’s just a big target. I’d love to see him keep growing as a blocker.”
