The Detroit Lions are expected to add at least one tight end during the 2026 NFL offseason, but how aggressive they’ll be at the position remains a major question.

On paper, Detroit appears solid atop the depth chart with Sam LaPorta and Brock Wright. However, LaPorta is coming off a season-ending serious back injury, creating uncertainty about his availability for the start of the 2026 campaign. That injury looms as the biggest wild card in the Lions’ offseason plans at tight end.

While most expect Detroit to make only a modest addition, AtoZ Sports’ Mike Payton believes the Lions could take a much bolder approach.

Payton predicts the Lions will pursue Baltimore Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely in free agency, projecting a four-year, $52 million contract for the explosive pass-catcher.

“The Lions are about to run a very tight end-heavy scheme in 2026, and even if Sam LaPorta is back in time, this scheme requires having a guy who can do damage next to him,” Payton said. “It helps that he’s a solid pass blocker and run blocker.”

Likely has flashed elite upside during his four seasons in Baltimore, showcasing big-play ability and reliable blocking. However, his ceiling has been capped by the presence of Mark Andrews, who was recently re-signed, and by the Ravens’ limited usage of multiple tight ends in the passing game.

Because of that, Baltimore could allow Likely to walk in free agency — opening the door for a team like Detroit to capitalize.

In the Lions’ offense, Likely would immediately add another dynamic weapon, making an already dangerous unit even harder to defend. Pairing him with LaPorta would force defenses to account for multiple tight ends while also dealing with Detroit’s deep group of offensive playmakers.

Likely would also serve as valuable insurance if LaPorta isn’t ready for Week 1 of the 2026 season — or if his recovery extends longer than expected.

That said, a blockbuster deal seems unlikely unless LaPorta’s injury timeline worsens. Paying $52 million for a second tight end who could end up as the No. 3 or No. 4 passing option would be difficult to justify.

The situation becomes even more complicated given the Lions’ cap concerns, as Detroit is currently projected to be $16.6 million over the salary cap, with several major extensions still looming.

For those reasons, a splash signing like Likely appears improbable. Instead, the Lions are more likely to pursue a lower-cost tight end and allocate their financial resources toward more pressing roster needs.