Here is the current free agency market according to Over The Cap, players are sorted by the amount of snaps they played last season:
(Photo: Over The Cap)
I don't see them immediately going out and adding another tight end but if they feel Joe Royer and Carsen Ryan aren't going to step up and deliver as a second tight end then adding someone else is going to need to happen at some point potentially going into or during training camp. You can't effectively lose the tight end position mid game if Harold Fannin is injured mid game.
Great Additions
Darren Waller - In terms of his on the field play he would give them a genuine second weapon in the position room to use two tight end sets when you want or have injury cover if anything happens to Fannin. It is just a question of would he play for Cleveland as he has flirted with retirement.
Good Additions
Zach Ertz - He is coming off an ACL injury at the end of the 2025 season but once he is healthy it is certainly an addition worth looking at. He is an experienced veteran who will be able to contribute as well as elevating the talent in the room. Fannin coming off a brilliant rookie season will have a number two with 879 catches to continue learning from.
Jonnu Smith - He is an experienced veteran who can have a role for the team as a second tight end. While 2025 was a down year he is still a solid player.
Will Dissly - He is a player that has always played well when given the chance, his biggest issue is staying healthy. I would certainly look to add him and see if he can make the roster.
Okay Additions
Anthony Firkser - If you are looking for an older veteran to add to the position room and battle for a spot on the final 53 then he might be the target for this role. Since he should't get an guarantees you don't need to lock him into a spot.
Wildcard Option
Donald Parham - He missed 2025 with an achilles injury but if he can stay healthy, potentially he could be a practice squad option if they want some veteran experience in the building.