You’ve heard the rumors. For most of 2025, the chatter around Baltimore was that the era of "Mandrews" was coming to a close. Critics pointed to the rising star of Isaiah Likely. They looked at the cap space. They whispered about that fumble in Buffalo.
Then, the Baltimore Ravens did what they always do: they valued their own. In early December 2025, they handed Mark Andrews Baltimore Ravens a three-year, $39.3 million extension. It wasn't just a contract; it was a statement.
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The 2025 Season: A Statistical Rollercoaster
Let's be real—2025 was weird for Mark Andrews. If you looked at his final stat line of 48 catches for 422 yards and five touchdowns, you might think he’s slowing down. He’s 30 now. In the NFL, that’s often the cliff for tight ends.
But stats without context are basically useless.
The Ravens’ offense was a mess of injuries and identity crises for much of the year. Lamar Jackson missed time with a back issue. Tyler Huntley had to step in, and frankly, the chemistry just wasn't the same. Andrews was often asked to block more to help a struggling offensive line, or he was decoyed to open up lanes for Zay Flowers.
Even in a "down" year, Andrews still found ways to make history. In Week 11 against the Cleveland Browns, he scored a 35-yard rushing touchdown on a fake "tush push" play the team called "Hurricane." That single play didn't just win a game; it cemented him as the Ravens' all-time leading receiver in terms of catches and yards.
He’s now the "Triple Crown" holder for Ravens pass-catchers. Most receptions. Most yards. Most touchdowns.
The Likely Dilemma: Why Keep Both?
The biggest question fans asked all year was whether the Ravens could actually keep both Andrews and Isaiah Likely. It’s a valid concern. Likely is 25, explosive, and frankly looks like a WR1 trapped in a tight end’s body.
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But here’s what the experts get wrong: they think it’s an "either-or" situation.
General Manager Eric DeCosta has been vocal about wanting the best tight end tandem in the league. By extending Andrews, the Ravens ensured they have their security blanket for Lamar Jackson’s prime. Andrews isn't just a target; he's the guy who knows exactly where Lamar is going to scramble before Lamar even knows it.
Breaking Down the New Money
The new deal is fascinating. Andrews got $26 million in total guarantees. His cap hit for 2026 is actually surprisingly low at about **$6.98 million**.
- Signing Bonus: $10.09 million
- 2026 Base Salary: $1.3 million
- Average Annual Value: $13.09 million
This structure gives the Ravens flexibility. They aren't tied to a massive, immovable number if his health takes a turn, but they’ve rewarded his loyalty.
Injuries and the "Warrior" Reputation
Mark Andrews is a Type 1 diabetic. He deals with more on a Tuesday morning than most players deal with all season. When he went down with that glute injury late in 2025, the city held its breath.
He didn't stay down.
He missed minimal time, showing up on the injury report with "Limited Participation" on a Thursday and then playing a full slate of snaps on Sunday. It’s that grit that defines the Ravens' culture. Whether it’s a car crash (which he survived earlier in his career) or a grueling ankle recovery, Andrews has a knack for being on the field when it matters.
Honestly, the "disappointing" production of late 2025 was largely a byproduct of the team's 8-9 finish. When the defense is giving up 30 points and the run game is stalled, even a Pro Bowl tight end can't save you every play.
The Buffalo Heartbreak and the Road Ahead
We have to talk about Buffalo. The 2024 playoff loss hung over him like a cloud. That fumble and the missed two-point conversion could have broken a lesser player.
Andrews didn't shy away from it. He told reporters in September 2025, "I'm a pro... this is my whole entire world." He went back to Buffalo for the season opener and played with a chip on his shoulder.
As we look toward the 2026 season, the mission for Mark Andrews Baltimore Ravens is clear: redemption through consistency. With Isaiah Likely likely heading to free agency (the Vikings and several other teams are already circling), the Ravens are betting that Andrews can return to his 1,000-yard form once the offense stabilizes.
He’s no longer the "young" guy. He's the elder statesman. He's the guy Zay Flowers looks to when the lights get bright.
Actionable Insights for Fans and Analysts
If you're tracking the Ravens' trajectory, watch these specific indicators for Andrews in the coming months:
- Offseason Personnel Changes: If the Ravens don't bring in a high-end WR2, expect Andrews' target share to jump back into the 20-25% range.
- Lamar Jackson’s Health: Andrews’ value is directly tied to Lamar’s ability to extend plays. If Lamar is healthy, Andrews is a top-three TE. If it's a backup QB, Andrews' production becomes "TD-dependent."
- The "Likely" Verdict: If Isaiah Likely signs elsewhere in March 2026, Andrews becomes the undisputed focal point of the middle of the field again.
Mark Andrews isn't just a player in Baltimore; he’s an institution. The 2025 extension proved that the front office believes his best days aren't in the rearview mirror—they’re just waiting for the right moment to arrive.