The Baltimore Ravens remain one of the most intriguing franchises in the NFL not only for their consistent playoff presence but also because of the way they handle their development pipeline, particularly at the tight end position. On a summer afternoon filled with speculation and optimism, head coach John Harbaugh, tight ends coach George Godsey, and tight end Charlie Kolar addressed the media in Owings Mills to discuss the state of the offense, the evolution of the tight end room, and how players like Kolar are finding their roles in a complex and demanding offensive scheme. The press conference, while standard in format, provided some revealing insights into the inner workings of the Ravens’ evolving strategy and leadership vision.
John Harbaugh opened the session with his characteristic poise and clarity. Never one to shy away from directness, Harbaugh acknowledged both the strengths and the current challenges the team is facing as they prepare for another brutal AFC North gauntlet. His remarks reflected a coach who is clearly aware of the expectations placed upon the team, especially with the ever-looming target that quarterback Lamar Jackson carries into every season. Harbaugh emphasized the role of the tight end unit as a vital cog in the offense’s machinery. He stressed how versatile players like Mark Andrews, Isaiah Likely, and Charlie Kolar are redefining how the position is perceived, not just in Baltimore, but across the league.
When asked about Charlie Kolar’s development and expectations for the upcoming season, Harbaugh didn’t hesitate. He praised Kolar’s intelligence, work ethic, and his ability to absorb complex information quickly—traits that are often overlooked but vital in a system that demands adaptability and mental toughness. Harbaugh’s message was clear: Kolar isn’t just another depth piece. He’s a significant part of what the team is building toward in their offensive progression. Harbaugh also subtly hinted that Kolar’s role might expand, indicating a growing trust in the young tight end’s capacity to perform at a high level when called upon.
Tight ends coach George Godsey took the podium next, providing more granular detail. Godsey’s coaching experience in various offensive systems around the league gives him a comprehensive perspective on what makes a successful tight end. He was quick to point out that Kolar is not just developing as a receiver but also improving his in-line blocking, route tree versatility, and communication with Lamar Jackson. These are areas where younger tight ends often struggle, particularly in systems where the quarterback is as mobile and improvisational as Jackson.
Godsey emphasized that the tight end room in Baltimore is a “collaborative environment,” where competition is fierce but supportive. Mark Andrews continues to be the alpha presence in the group, and his mentorship is critical for the younger players. But what stood out in Godsey’s comments was how highly he spoke of Charlie Kolar’s attention to detail. He specifically noted that Kolar asks “the right questions” during film study and shows up early to grasp defensive tendencies. That intellectual curiosity, combined with Kolar’s 6-foot-6 frame and strong hands, make him a uniquely valuable asset in both red zone scenarios and short-yardage conversions.
Godsey also provided an update on how the coaching staff is refining the offensive playbook to better utilize multiple tight end sets, especially when facing defenses that overload the box or deploy nickel and dime packages. The tight end is often seen as a matchup nightmare—too fast for linebackers and too big for defensive backs—and Kolar fits this hybrid mold. Godsey believes that the ability to rotate and stack players like Andrews, Likely, and Kolar will force defenses into uncomfortable positions, which can only benefit Lamar Jackson in his decision-making. According to Godsey, Kolar has put in the work to become not just a reliable safety valve but someone who can make explosive plays down the seam, across the middle, or in back-shoulder fade situations.
When Charlie Kolar finally stepped up to the microphone, his demeanor reflected the quiet confidence of someone who knows he still has much to prove but is entirely focused on the task at hand. Kolar spoke about the challenges of transitioning from college to the NFL, particularly when it comes to the physicality of defenders and the speed of the game. He credited the coaching staff for pushing him in areas where he initially struggled, such as hand placement in blocking and footwork in route running. But perhaps the most revealing aspect of his remarks came when he discussed the mental side of the game. Kolar made it clear that understanding coverage schemes, defensive rotations, and timing patterns has been his main priority during the offseason.
He also highlighted the camaraderie in the locker room, particularly among the tight ends. According to Kolar, working alongside someone like Mark Andrews is a constant learning experience. Andrews’ ability to improvise without sacrificing discipline has become a teaching tool for Kolar, who aims to mirror that adaptability without overstepping the scheme. Kolar shared how the team emphasizes communication—how a slight gesture or a quick glance from Jackson before the snap can change everything, and how the tight ends must be in sync with the quarterback at all times. This level of nuance and connection doesn’t come overnight, but Kolar’s comments revealed a player who is entirely bought in.
Kolar also spoke about his offseason training regimen. He noted that he spent significant time working on explosiveness and change-of-direction speed, two areas that are vital when trying to gain separation in tight windows. While he’s not the fastest player on the field, Kolar believes his understanding of leverage and body positioning allows him to create space in ways that are often unnoticeable to the untrained eye. He mentioned studying tape of not just Andrews, but also other top-tier tight ends across the league—guys like Travis Kelce and George Kittle—to identify habits and patterns that he can incorporate into his own game.
One of the more touching moments came when Kolar was asked about what motivates him. Without hesitation, he spoke about the opportunity to be a part of something bigger than himself. The Ravens’ culture, as he described it, is one of accountability, grit, and constant self-improvement. He expressed gratitude for the trust the organization has shown in him and noted that every snap he gets on the field is a chance to prove that he belongs. In a league where the average career is short and roles can change overnight, Kolar is approaching every practice and every rep with the urgency of someone who knows nothing is guaranteed.
Throughout the press conference, one thing became abundantly clear: the Ravens are deeply invested in the tight end position as a cornerstone of their offensive identity. Whether it’s in the form of creative play designs, strategic blocking schemes, or providing Lamar Jackson with versatile targets, the emphasis on tight ends speaks volumes about how the organization sees the modern game evolving. In an era where many teams chase speed and spacing at all costs, the Ravens continue to double down on size, versatility, and cerebral play.
What Harbaugh, Godsey, and Kolar all echoed in their own way was a commitment to precision. Every motion, every block, every route—nothing is taken for granted. The Ravens are not merely trying to win games; they are building a system that rewards discipline and punishes defensive uncertainty. And at the heart of this system is a group of tight ends who bring vastly different tools to the table but are united in their purpose.
As the season approaches, all eyes will naturally turn to the stars—Lamar Jackson, Mark Andrews, Roquan Smith. But if the comments from today are any indication, fans and analysts alike would be wise to keep a close watch on Charlie Kolar. Because while he may not yet be a household name, the work he’s putting in, combined with the coaching infrastructure around him, suggests that he could very well be the next breakout talent in a position group that has become synonymous with the Baltimore Ravens’ identity. The path to NFL relevance is often steep and full of detours, but Charlie Kolar is walking it with a quiet determination and a team behind him that believes he can do more than just contribute—he can help redefine what it means to be a tight end in today’s game.
