The Baltimore Ravens have agreed to terms with former Chicago Bears and Dolphins tight end Durham Smythe.
Baltimore is importing a piece of the Bears offense, likely with heavy influence from former Bears offensive coordinator Declan Doyle. Doyle and Smythe spent their single season together in Chicago in 2025. Doyle is expected to fill the hole left behind by Charlie Kolar, who is departing the Ravens organization in free agency.
The pairing of this player with this franchise makes sense. Smythe has historically been a blocking tight end, with only 136 career catches. Smythe spent the first seven years of his career in Miami before he signed a one-year deal with the Bears. During his single season in Chicago, he logged four catches on only six targets.
Doyle Brings a Familiar Face
Doyle is showing his offensive priorities early in his tenure with Baltimore. Smythe is known for his prowess as a blocker, and he'll be set to take an essential role in the Ravens' pass protection and run-blocking. It's not uncommon for a player to follow a coach to a new franchise, especially when the player can provide offensive depth and already understands Doyle's play designs.
Though Smythe may not be a star signing, this is a clear indication of how Baltimore intends to fill their roster. After the departure of long-time head coach John Harbaugh, this season is shaping up to be an abnormal one for Baltimore fans. Doyle has the opportunity to work under Jesse Minter, a defensive-minded coach, and therefore, it's expected that Doyle will run the offense. Bringing in a player that he trusts only makes sense.
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Smythe may not generate week-to-week headlines, but moves like this often reveal how a roster is quietly constructed. Familiarity and reliability can matter just as much as star power, especially when a new system is being implemented.