As the team heads into a pivotal offseason, decisions on key players have been made to position the franchise for long-term success. Here’s a breakdown of the significant moves:
Franchise Tagged
• Mark Andrews (TE)
Despite his invaluable contributions over the years, Andrews is approaching the latter stages of his prime. The team opted to place the franchise tag on him, ensuring one more year of elite production while preparing to find a long-term replacement through the draft or free agency.
Key Players Not Retained
• Keaton Mitchell (RB)
After a productive tenure, Mitchell will not be re-signed. The emergence of Jaydn Ott, a former fourth-round pick who amassed 1,000 rushing yards and seven touchdowns last season, has solidified Ott as the running back of the future.
• Isaiah Likely (TE)
Likely’s decline in production, even during Mark Andrews’ absence due to injuries and suspension, has led to the decision to part ways. The team went as far as bringing in Dan Arnold to fill the void, signaling their readiness to move on.
• Alec Pierce (WR)
While Pierce provided solid depth, the team feels the draft offers opportunities to upgrade the wide receiver position.
• Malcolm Koonce (EDGE)
Limited playing time made it clear that Koonce was not part of the long-term plan. The team plans to address the position in the draft.
• Travis Jones (DT)
A financial decision, as Jones’ contract demands exceeded the team’s budget.
• David Ojabo (EDGE)
After struggling to meet expectations since being drafted out of Michigan, the team will part ways with Ojabo.
• Michael Pierce (DT)
Age and injury concerns have forced the team to move on from the veteran defensive tackle.
• Clelin Ferrell (DE)
Signed as a depth piece in free agency, Ferrell was always seen as a one-year rental. The team will seek younger, more permanent options.
• Caden Sterns (S)
Sterns’ departure will prompt the team to address the safety position during the offseason.
• Daniel Faalele (OT)
Despite his potential, Faalele did not meet expectations, and the team believes they can upgrade the position elsewhere.
• Oshane Ximines (EDGE)
Age and lack of playing time last season make this an easy decision for the team.
• Jalyn Armour-Davis (CB)
Armour-Davis saw no playing time last year, which sealed his fate with the team.
• Charlie Kolar (TE)
With a need for stronger production at the tight end position, the team feels confident they can find a better fit.
Strategic Outlook
The decisions this offseason reflect a clear strategy: invest in younger talent, maintain financial flexibility, and address key positions through the draft. While saying goodbye to some familiar faces is never easy, these moves set the stage for a new era of competitive success.
The next step? Capitalizing on the draft and free agency to build a team capable of competing for a championship.